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Political Suicide

“Political suicide” is an unpopular action that is likely to cause significant harm to their reputation, electoral success, or power within their organization.

These actions can include making unpopular or controversial decisions, engaging in unethical or illegal behavior, or failing to address the needs and concerns of the public.

For example, a politician who takes a stand on a controversial issue that is opposed by a large portion of their constituents may be seen as committing political suicide, as they risk alienating a significant portion of their support base and potentially jeopardizing their chances of re-election.

Similarly, a political party that fails to address pressing concerns or issues faced by the public, such as economic inequality or environmental degradation, may be seen as committing political suicide by ignoring the needs and priorities of the people they represent.

However, as William Safire notes, “these suicides, like the report of Mark Twain’s death, are usually exaggerations. Actions unpopular on their face can be take as evidence of courage.”

Use of “Political Suicide” in a sentence

  • The politician’s decision to vote against his party’s position on a controversial issue was seen as political suicide, as it likely cost him the support of many of his constituents and jeopardized his re-election prospects.
  • The political party’s failure to address the concerns of the public on issues such as healthcare and education was seen as political suicide, as it led to a significant decline in popularity and cost them several seats in the election.
  • The politician’s extreme and divisive stance on immigration was seen as political suicide, as it alienated potential supporters and contributed to his defeat in the election.