The poverty of fear

The problem with this country is that Peter Dutton could credibly become its prime minister. If the myth of American politics is that anyone can be president, the sad truth of Australia is that no one is truly unelectable. The degradation of our politics, the emptying out of talent and credibility, has left us with a poverty of choice. It is a contest between impotence and incompetence. The decision is made by the country’s worst impulses, which suits Dutton fine.