One of the reasons politicians have fallen into disfavor in our society is that they take themselves too seriously. After all, they are just normal people with a gift for getting elected. n

There are all sorts of accusations raised against them as a class: they are corrupt, in it for themselves, in it for the money, uncaring – and the list goes on. And there is some truth to the accusations when it comes to the occasional politician, but most of the ones I have met, ad I have met hundreds, have a genuine desire for public service.

Which doesn’t mean that they bring in good policies. A desire to do good doesn’t mean much if you don’t understand the impact of your legislative program. And far too many don’t have a clue about the damage they are doing as they try to do good.

I had never heard of Australian Senator Ross Cadell before this week, when I came across some of his expense statements that had been posted to Twitter (or X if you want to be current). Apparently in Australia financial disclosure is far more detailed than that required in Canada.

Here I can look up what my MP spent on various things like travel or hospitality, but I don’t think individua meals are detailed, It looks like they are in Australia.

I have no idea what Senator Cadell’s political stance is. Nor do I care. I don’t live in Australia, so I don’t feel a need for more information.

From these expense reports though, I do like his sense of humor.