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Andy Burnham has already made a mistake that will cost him his premiership: he lost his nerve over political donations | George Monbiot
The author criticizes the public's perceived impatience with political leaders, questioning if society is becoming ungovernable due to factors like social media or a consumerist culture. However, he argues that this perceived impatience is actually a rational response to political betrayal. The core of this betrayal, according to the author, is the consistent sacrifice of the public interest for the benefit of a small, wealthy elite. This occurs almost immediately after leaders take office. The author implies that leaders are unwilling or unable to address pressing national issues because they are beholden to these wealthy interests. This subservience effectively ties their hands. Consequently, the public's disgruntlement is justified as leaders abandon them by prioritizing the interests of a few over the many. This pattern has led to frequent leadership changes and widespread dissatisfaction. The author’s piece highlights a fundamental disconnect between the needs of the public and the actions of their leaders.