People generally want to be represented by someone who understands their lives, their struggles, and their values.
This desire stems from the belief that those who share similar experiences are more likely to fight for the interests of their constituents, as opposed to someone who sees themselves as superior or detached from the realities of the everyday person.
The idea of relatable representation is not new; it’s a principle deeply rooted in the foundation of democracy. The very essence of representative government is that leaders should reflect the people they serve. This reflection is not just in policies or platforms but in a genuine understanding of the lives of those they represent. When leaders come from a similar background, they are seen as one of the people, not above them.
This connection builds trust, as constituents feel confident that their concerns are truly understood. But leaders need to nurture this connection. Something some don’t do, unfortunately.
Over time, there has been a shift in the political landscape. At times, those in power seem disconnected from the realities of the average person. As political positions have become more professionalized, many representatives are seen as part of an elite class, far removed from the people they were elected to serve. Whether it’s their wealth, education, or social circles, these factors can create a sense of superiority, or at the very least, a perception of it.
And as always, perception is some people’s reality.
This perceived disconnect between leaders and the people they represent is not just about wealth or privilege, whether it be real or perceived; it’s about attitude. When representatives act as though they are better, smarter, or more capable than the people they serve, it creates a rift.
It is especially troublesome for people when their elected leaders act above the law. Whether it be simply how someone parks their car or drives, all those who put themselves out there as leaders need to be above the law. Nobody wants to see officials’ cars parked taking up two spaces at a meter or see officials drive like the rules of the road do not apply to them. Most times, they will call them on it.
People don’t want to feel talked down to or dismissed, especially by those they have chosen to represent them. They want someone who sees them as equals, who values their input, and who is willing to roll up their sleeves and work alongside them. And, nobody wants someone who comes across with the attitude of, “I’m here to save the day,” no matter how they got there.
Take, for example, the growing disdain for so-called “career politicians.” Many voters feel these individuals, who spend decades in office, become more interested in maintaining power than in addressing the needs of their constituents. The longer some are in office, the more they seem to lose touch with the realities of everyday life for the average person. This frustration has led to a rise in outsider candidates, who campaign on the promise of shaking up the status quo and bringing a fresh perspective to government.
These candidates often succeed not because of their political experience, but because they are seen as relatable, as one of the people.
This sentiment isn’t limited to political office. In various aspects of life, people gravitate towards leaders who they feel are like them. Whether it’s in the workplace, in social movements, or in community organizations, individuals are more likely to support and follow someone they see as a peer rather than someone who positions themselves as superior. This is because shared experiences create a sense of understanding and empathy that is crucial for effective leadership.
This seems to be especially true in West Virginia, where we feel a sense of camaraderie with other West Virginians. And again, nobody in any circumstance likes to be talked down to.
However, the challenge arises when those who, in elected office, are supposed to be there to represent the people but they start to believe their own hype.
Power can be intoxicating and it can be easy for some leaders to begin to think they know better than those they serve. They may start to make decisions without consulting their constituents, believing that their position gives them the authority to act unilaterally. This is where the disconnect deepens. When leaders start to see themselves as separate from the people, they lose the very connection that got them elected in the first place. And when the people have their say, they act accordingly.
The importance of humility in leadership cannot be overstated.
Leaders who remain grounded, who remember where they came from, and who continue to see themselves as one of the people – not above them – are the ones who maintain the trust and support of their constituents. This humility is not just about avoiding arrogance; it’s about recognizing that leadership is a service, not a privilege. The best leaders are those who listen more than they speak, who seek to understand before they act, and who never forget their power comes from the people they serve.
In today’s political climate, where distrust in government is high and polarization is rampant, the need for relatable representation is more critical than ever. People are tired of being represented by those who seem out of touch with their lives. They want leaders who share their values, their struggles, and their aspirations. They want someone who will fight for them, not because it’s politically advantageous, but because they genuinely care.
Ultimately, the desire for relatable representation is a call for authenticity.
People want to be led by someone real; someone who understands them, and someone who never loses sight of what it means to serve. Leaders who embrace this will not only gain the trust of their constituents, but they will also be more effective in creating the change that is truly needed. This is something that I am not sure can be learned, although many have tried to emulate it.
Like my dad always says, it is important to separate the pepper from the fly poop.
