There is this common narrative which puts state governors in bad light and portrays them as sit-tight power mongers who refuse to ‘actually’ leave power when their tenures expire. Contrary to this widely held opinion, the governors might be deserving of praise for not being like the rich farmer in the bible. This rich farmer was regarded as a fool in Jesus’ parable. What we know of him is that in the season of his demise his farming did so well that he said to himself “Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry”
So the governors should be applauded for not resting on their (financial) fortunes after they leave office, but desiring to work (especially in the senate), in the corridors of power, to their very ripe age. Yet we are bound to ask why the governors do not find something else to do when they leave office apart from politics?
We can give the following reasons:
- They have tasted the forbidden fruit of ‘corrupted power’ and can no longer live without it
- They cannot survive for long without state funds, as they do not know how to service their already gotten wealth and extravagant lifestyle without the state machinery, for what is gotten without creativity and hard work must be sustained in like manner.
- They have what some might describe as leadership mindset. Here they erroneously think that leadership can only be done through government.
- Some see themselves as career politicians who know nothing but politics as a way of life. But life itself is politics and anyone can claim to be anything when it soothes them.
Let us say that they do not involve themselves in power after their time as governors because of money (which they already have in abundance). We may then posit that they hang around power because they know not what else to do or they want to stay busy.
The list below are things that the governors can do after leaving office. They will not only find soul fulfillment from them but also meaningful material satisfaction for themselves and loved ones.
1.Public Speaking: They can become sought-after public speakers, sharing their expertise and experiences at conferences, universities, and corporate events. It will keep them active and should also serve as a form of fulfillment impacting knowledge to others.
2.Political Consulting: They can work as political consultants, advising candidates, campaigns, and political organizations on strategy, messaging, and policy. The fact is that they already do this, but in a somewhat overbearing manner and only for personal benefits.
3.Lobbying and Advocacy Work: Governors can become lobbyists, using their political connections, knowledge and social capital to influence legislation on behalf of humanitarian courses, businesses and pubic interest groups. They can use their passions about specific policy issues and become involved in non-profit organizations or advocacy groups dedicated to those causes. They may be appointed to diplomatic positions also.
4.Writing and Publishing: Writing books or articles about their time in office, their political philosophies, or their views on important issues is another way ex governors can find soul and material fulfillment in a noble manner.
5.Corporate Board Memberships: Former governors can serve on corporate boards, providing their insight and connections to help guide businesses and make strategic decisions.
6.Academic Roles: Universities often hire former politicians as professors, lecturers, or researchers in fields such as political science, public policy, or law.
7.Media and Journalism: Some former governors transition into media roles, becoming political commentators, analysts, or hosts on television or radio.
8.Entrepreneurship: They can enter the business world, either by starting their own companies or joining existing ones, leveraging their leadership skills and connections for success in the private sector.
It’s important to note that the specific options available to a former governor may vary depending on their individual background, experience, and interests. Also the political and economic climate at the time of their departure from office plays a role in their decision, in hindsight, they are the ones who “create/determine” the political and economic climate they will meet outside office.
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