AN AFFRONT TO US ALL

GEORGE WASHINGTON once said that “being a politician makes your hair turn white.”

That was back in the late 1700s. Much has changed in the more than 200 years since, but Washington’s quote remains as true today as it did back then.

Politics should not be so tough a business in a prosperous city like the Gold Coast, but even here, our elected representatives can expect a rough time.

The appearance over the weekend of graffiti imploring Mayor Tom Tate to shuffle off his mortal coil was a very public manifestation of the abuse our politicians often face.

Many have told this newspaper that anonymous threats are not uncommon.

Mayor Tate brushed off the latest incident, refusing to be much troubled by a moron with a spray can. In politics, it is necessary to wear a thick skin.

But whether the grub responsible realised it or not, the sinister message not only attacked the Mayor. It was a clear signal to anyone who might contemplate running for office of what might be in store for them if they weigh in on controversial issues. As such, it was an affront to us all.

Nobody deserves to be subject to threats and intimidation simply for holding an opinion. It is simply unacceptable in a democracy.

There needs to be greater respect for all of those who put themselves forward for election, even if we do not always like their views.

If not, very few will be willing to raise their heads above the parapet and subject themselves to the public scrutiny that running for office involves.

After all, like Washington, no one wants their hair turned prematurely white.