However, that seems to have ended today as Cooper recently took to social media to criticize Hamilton's latest "F" grade in a national financial accountability ranking.
His message was clear. Hamilton received an F. Taxpayers are paying more and getting less. City Hall needs more transparency, more accountability, and better stewardship of public dollars. On the surface, there is little to disagree with.
Hamilton did receive an F. Residents are frustrated. Taxes continue to rise. Many citizens believe they are not seeing results commensurate with the growing financial burden being placed upon them.
But there is another question worth asking. Why is Councillor Rob Cooper speaking as though he is standing outside City Hall looking in? The reality is that he currently occupies a seat around the council table. While he was not responsible for the years of decisions that preceded his election to council, he is now part of the institution he is criticizing. That distinction matters.
Political campaigns often create a temptation for incumbents and sitting officials to campaign against the very institutions of which they are a part. It can be an effective strategy. Position yourself as the outsider. Identify the problem. Promise to fix it.
It can also backfire, leading voters to ask what role a sitting councillor should play in addressing the concerns he now highlights.
The Hamiltonian
Too funny. He is part of the F. And he wants you to vote him as mayor?
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