It is a curse of modern western political systems. The US Presidential race is often held up as a really good example: those most able to get themselves elected are rarely the most able to actually preside. That was arguably Clinton's problem and definitely Dubya's problem.

Australians saw it a number of years ago in Victoria. Premier (approximately the same as a US State Governor) Jeff Kennett deeply divided the electorate for doing things like building much-needed city freeways including electronic tolling, and making big upgrades to the tram and train system that the unions hated because it cut staff. But the state of Victoria and Melbourne in particular are now much better for it.

Politicians are often accused of only looking to the next election. Unfortunately, the nature of the election system encourages it. Sydney desparately needs another visionary like John Bradfield - he created not only our CBD rail system but also got the harbour bridge built - but there's no-one in Macquarie Street who will do. Even our Lord Mayor doesn't measure up, though she's probably the best we've got at the moment. And I'm appalled I just typed that...

Wade.