This Concludes My Politics for the Year: the Moral Compass of Politicians”

As the year draws to a close, I find myself stepping back from the political fray, not out of apathy, but out of a profound realization: I am 100% in agreement that no politician truly believes in their own moral compass. This may sound cynical, but it’s a conclusion born out of observation, experience, and a deep desire for authenticity in leadership.

Politics, at its core, is a game of power, persuasion, and perception. Politicians often present themselves as champions of justice, equality, and progress, but behind the polished speeches and carefully crafted images lies a stark reality: their actions rarely align with their words. Whether it’s flip-flopping on key issues, prioritizing party loyalty over public good, or making decisions that benefit their donors rather than their constituents, the moral compass of many politicians seems to spin wildly, pointing in whatever direction is most convenient at the time.

This isn’t to say that all politicians are inherently corrupt or devoid of principles. There are undoubtedly those who enter public service with genuine intentions. But the system itself—a system built on fundraising, lobbying, and the relentless pursuit of power—often erodes those intentions, leaving behind a shell of what once might have been a true moral compass.

Take, for example, the endless debates over issues like healthcare, climate change, and economic inequality. These are not just policy discussions; they are moral imperatives. Yet, time and again, we see politicians on both sides of the aisle prioritize partisan victories over meaningful solutions. The result is a political landscape where rhetoric outweighs action, and where the needs of the many are sacrificed for the gains of the few.

As I step away from politics for the year, I do so with a sense of clarity. I no longer expect politicians to be the moral leaders we hope them to be. Instead, I look to the grassroots movements, the activists, and the everyday citizens who are fighting for change from the ground up. These are the people who truly believe in their moral compass, who are driven by a genuine desire to make the world a better place.

So, as we head into the new year, I encourage you to do the same. Look beyond the political theater and focus on the issues that matter most to you. Hold your leaders accountable, but don’t rely on them to be your moral guides. True change comes from within, from the collective actions of individuals who refuse to accept the status quo.

This concludes my politics for the year. Here’s to a future where integrity, compassion, and authenticity guide us forward—not because of our politicians, but in spite of them.