Australia must ‘re-win the argument for democratic politics’ in wake of Haines incident, Alastair Campbell says
Summary
Alastair Campbell urged Australian politicians and media to lower political hostility and strengthen public support for democratic politics after the alleged attack on independent MP Helen Haines. He said public calls for change after attacks on British politicians faded quickly, and argued that economic hardship and distrust have helped fuel populist politics.Key Facts
- A 43-year-old man has been charged over the alleged attack on Helen Haines, and police are investigating.
- The attack outside Haines’ electorate office in northern Victoria left her without both legs, according to the article.
- Campbell said Haines’ expected return to parliament could help keep attention on the consequences of political violence.
- Campbell cited the killings of British MPs Jo Cox and David Amess as cases after which political debate briefly drew calls for change.
- He urged politicians and media to consider how they speak to the public and why their professions face low trust.
- Campbell linked the rise of populist politics to the lingering effects of the 2008 financial crisis, including austerity and pressure on living standards.
- Campbell is due to visit Australia for a speaking tour next month.
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