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Original poster

To think you can tell if someone is a Statesman/woman by how they conduct themselves when they lose (or nearly lose)

58 replies

AssortedLabels · 05/07/2024 09:58

Some stark contrasts in how various politicians have conducted themselves when they lose.

George Galloway not even there. Liz Truss no reaction.

Jeremy Hunt almost loses but does so describing Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves as “decent people” and sending his best wishes.

Penny Mourdant takes it on the chin and does a nice speech.

I just think you can tell a lot about how people react.

OP posts:
milhelpplease · 06/07/2024 07:45

@Ponoka7 we aren't talking about the Nazis. Yes of course people who do horrific things can be charming and polite. . I'd say the current thread chat is quite a long way away from war criminals being interrogated about genocide.

being able to lose well and respect the democratic process is important - especially given current events in North America, for example

MaGueule · 06/07/2024 07:42

I agree. Liz Truss sulking in the toilets before the count and flouncing off at the end said it all.

Jacob Rees-Mogg managed to be interviewed by Alistair Campbell before his count announcement already knowing he had lost, and conducted himself with great composure. I don’t like his word view, but that shows strength of character.

milhelpplease · 06/07/2024 07:42

Absolutely agree. Tbf horrible as he is Rees Mogg was also a gracious loser. By contrast, Gillian Keegan walked off stage when the winning candidate started their speech.

This shouldn't need saying but it is also relieving / important that no one questioned the validity of the vote and power changed hands without dispute.

Ponoka7 · 06/07/2024 07:42

The Nazi leaders were charming and I've read accounts of camp survivors, they were very polite during interrogations. Did you watch Mourdant lying during the debates? Are you holding up Truss as someone who knows how to conduct herself and someone with integrity? Did you watch Hunt leaving with his wife? He even had to be reminded to let her get into the car first, she trails behind him and he's happy to let her. I find them chilling tbh.

Meadowfinch · 06/07/2024 07:38

I think it's a reflection of their personality too. The ability to recognise the good points of others even if they don't agree on politics. Good manners. Good humour. The ability to respect others.

Liz Truss's reaction said everything about her.

beccahamlet · 06/07/2024 07:38

100% agree. I found the human angle just as interesting as the politics when I was watching the results come in. Fascinating how differently people conduct themselves. Penny M was very dignified.

CowTown · 06/07/2024 07:34

Absolutely. See also: Donald Trump.

SeeingRainbowsInTheGloom · 06/07/2024 07:32

I agree. Penny Mordaunt was very gracious.