Editorial –
In a week marked by high-profile leaders going about their democratic duties, one could easily miss the bigger picture as the world watches a US presidential campaign that could reshape democracy itself across the developed world.
Meanwhile, on the Central Coast, we saw very different figures of leadership navigating their own trials and tribulations, each highlighting the challenges facing modern democracy.
Our working-class Prime Minister found himself in hot water, not for any policy decision, but for purchasing an expensive slice of Central Coast paradise.
Social media and critics quickly lashed out, questioning his connection to the everyday Australian.
This is the reality of our time: a leader’s private life can be used as ammunition, overshadowing any of their democratic achievements.
On the other hand, the head of our frail monarchy, King Charles III, appeared grounded and compassionate, engaging with one local Central Coast family about their experience surviving skin cancer.
The King’s calm and rational demeanour stood in stark relief to the frenzied world of popular politics, reminding us that leadership can also mean listening and caring.
Closer to home, our newly elected Central Coast Mayor was busy correcting the record from his Deputy Mayor that his Team Central Coast was in a formal coalition with Liberal party councillors.
The Mayor swiftly hosed down the claims, underscoring that the political landscape on the Coast remains uncertain, and speculation can spread quickly in our social media-fueled age.
All of this demonstrates that democracies are messy on every level, and are struggling to keep up appearances in a world obsessed with entertainment and opinion rather than considered substance.
Yet, the greatest threat to our well-being isn’t individuals like The PM, King Charles, Mr Trump or our Mayor.
It’s our collective distraction from pressing issues, like the sudden closure of a local long day care service as reported this week.
This reminds us that democracies are well served by the media providing verified and important information.
CCN was proud to lead the local media in reporting on that important story, thanks in the main to a group of passionate parents fighting to be heard.
It’s these voices of ordinary people that truly matter most.
David Abrahams – Managing Editor