The Celebrity of Politics

Today's Herald Sun has a light puff piece about the "Politics of Celebrity" in relation to Maxine McKew's run against John Howard in Bennelong and other "celebrities" in parliament.

I would suggest a "celebrity of politics" exists in that every politician from every party becomes a celebrity of sorts when they join the parliament. Some take on more celebrity than others - just look at Pauline Hanson or Natasha Stott Despoja for instance. Others lack the charisma, good looks, intelligence or startling comments to generate "celebrity" status. Some prefer to remain anonymous, known only to their constituents. But even they are a minor celebrity, whether its officially opening a building or having a cup of tea with the punters in a country hall.

The point is, we shouldn't get hung up on the celebrity of any politician. Yes there are high profile politicians and candidates. There always will be. It's what they say and do that counts.