If leaders sign up to play the publicity game, they can't throw their toys out of the sand pit when things don't go their way.

Mike is joined by Dr Neryl East, expert on communication, media, credibility, influence and reputation, says Gold Coast Mayor, Tom Tate, telling a journalist to “f**k off” is just the latest example of a leader overstepping the line when pushing back on tough questions, rather than fielding them in a credible and professional manner.

It’s also another sign of a general race to the bottom when it comes to the quality of political communication, with savage name-calling and swearing becoming commonplace in media interviews.

If voters are looking to pollies for inspirational leadership that gives them hope as they face increasing pressures, they might be struggling to find it right now.