FRANK LEONARD -- For those who are newly-elected and enjoying new friendships I offer this observation: it is still politics
“There are no friends in politics” I replied to the radio talk show host as I was asked about my public tussle with a colleague in local government. My inside voice had escaped and I immediately regretted saying it. Not that I didn’t believe it; I just didn’t want the cold-hearted ruthless side of ‘Political Frank’ to be revealed to the voting public. When asked why I entered politics I often have a throwaway line about my ‘flawed DNA’ but there may be some truth to it. Certainly, my grade five friend seemed devastated when I pulled off a coup for book club president during recess. Years later I felt blindsided when a high school chum ran against me for class president – particularly when he won. Part of my DNA makes me run for positions within organizations I’m in, even against my friends. When you’re in elected office you make lots of new friends. This is no different than other workplaces, community groups or even the n...