Many citizens undoubtedly hope these elections end soon and that the rightful winner—whoever earns the most votes—is elected, after experiencing one of the most intense and polarized presidential campaigns in recent times.
- Many citizens undoubtedly hope these elections end soon and that the rightful winner—whoever earns the most votes—is elected, after experiencing one of the most intense and polarized presidential campaigns in recent times.
- The goal is no longer to convince but to persuade.
- This should be the case in the country that embraces the most ideological and cultural diversity.
- No battle or competition is won by attacking, insulting, and belittling the opponent.
In recent days, beyond the excessive media barrage of advertising and insulting testimonials, disrespect and smear tactics between the two main rivals and their parties’ spokespeople, two other opposition candidates vying to represent Floridians in the Senate clashed at a public event, exchanging insults and inciting their supporters to verbally attack one another.
Scenes like these are evidence of the shameful and pathetic state politics has reached today.
The rhetoric of insults has replaced rational argument. Ideological battles now play out on social media with memes, not proposals. Credibility is measured in likes, not potential voters.
The goal is no longer to convince but to persuade.
The rival is no longer just an opponent but an enemy. The battle is now fought with words, not arguments or feasible proposals. The contest is no longer about reasoned debate but shouting matches.
While political contests naturally involve dissent, disagreement, and opposition, the fight must always be waged with respect, arguments, and facts. That is the example leaders must set for voters and fellow citizens to earn their trust and credibility.
Paradoxically, in a digitalized world where rational debates to persuade should be easier, today’s political contests instead confuse, lie, and further divide citizens.
In many countries, electoral laws penalize candidates who use smear tactics and disrespect toward their opponents as part of their campaign strategies.
This should be the case in the country that embraces the most ideological and cultural diversity.
Electoral crimes pose a risk to the integrity of elections and undermine citizens’ trust in democracy. Beyond fraud, civil rights violations, or voter repression and intimidation, limits should also be placed on candidates.
The essence of citizenship is the right to vote, to benefit from the privileges of citizenship, and to have the opportunity to hold public office. That is precisely what politics is for—to serve and manage the common good. Being a leader is not an easy role that everyone wants to compete for.
Public service is a responsibility that demands preparation and a true civic sense. Contrary to what many believe, not just anyone can be a real politician. Politicians are not made overnight; they are born with a calling and gradually prepare themselves for the role.
No battle or competition is won by attacking, insulting, and belittling the opponent.
Disrespect is one of the most destructive weapons for winning, and it threatens the credibility and trust of voters who are tired of the petty rhetoric that has degraded political debate. Vote with reason, not emotion.
Omaira Martínez
Colombian journalist oma66co@gmail.com
