Trust and Skepticism in Politics: An Insider's Perspective

My journey has taught me to approach trust with a more nuanced lens. The word 'trust' can be overly binary, leading to a simple yes or no answer. Instead, I have learned to use the word 'expect', to gauge how someone might behave under certain circumstances. This has led me to understand that not all politicians align with my core beliefs, and many do not meet my expectations.

A Deep Dive into Political Creeds

Firstly, politicians often hold a political creed which guides their actions and policies. For instance, politicians with authoritarian tendencies tend to lean towards the left, advocating for centralized, bureaucratic, and collective societies where individual interests and choices are often limited. This contrasts sharply with my own classical liberal values, making it difficult to support such policies politically.

Moreover, the political spectrum in the UK contains a plethora of varied beliefs and ideologies. From the far right who advocate for aggressive and potentially confrontational policies, to the far left aiming for immediate radical change; from corporate sellouts to party loyalists, each group brings a unique set of expectations and challenges. As someone deeply rooted in classical liberalism, my expectations are often in direct opposition to these more extreme or transactional political leanings.

Skepticism as a Defense Mechanism

Given these compounded expectations, my natural response is skepticism. Skepticism, in this context, is not distrust itself, but rather a healthy questioning of what politicians say and do. This skepticism extends to those who consistently speak – the more one speaks, the more they have to say, and often, the less truth they tell. As I have come to realize, "among all politicians, I trust the least those who talk the most."

Insider Experiences and Observations

Looking back, one name stands out as particularly disappointing: Mitch McConnell. Raised in one of the poorest states in the nation, McConnell has done little to address the struggles of his own constituents. His role in supporting Donald Trump has been pivotal, single-handedly transforming the Republican Party from one of Lincoln to one dominated by the Trump agenda. This transformation demonstrates a lack of genuine commitment to his district or broader principles of empathy and service.

More broadly, my observations paint a picture of a political landscape where many politicians prioritize personal gain over public service. Some are cynical, serving power alongside their peers. Some pander to base emotions, while others are invested in their own enterprises, feigning substance while avoiding difficult realities. There are also those who adopt a religious fundamentalist approach or favor sentiment over detailed and practical solutions.

In conclusion, my journey through political skepticism has revealed layers of disappointed expectations. The word 'trust' is too rigid, but by learning to 'expect' certain behaviors from politicians based on their ideologies and past actions, I've developed a clearer understanding of who aligns with my values and who does not. In a world where politicians often promise more than they deliver, my suspicions serve as a protective mechanism, ensuring that I am not misled or disappointed by empty promises.