It’s been an interesting start to an election year. And to say the very least, it’s left me angry.

But after some time and consideration, I’d like to extend my thanks to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

First, let’s recap the last few months.

We’ve seen the Prime Minister’s response (or lack thereof) to allegations of pressure on former Attorney General Jody Wilson-Raybould, a situation that escalated again on Friday with the release of a recorded conversation with then-Privy Council Clerk Michael Wernick. Then the long line of non-answers to questions over her re-assignment.

That was followed by his party’s response to her cabinet resignation and testimony, and later the cabinet resignation of colleague Jane Philpott — both highly regarded women who have worked hard to find their places in the centre of Canadian politics.

Last week, as a disturbing video of our Prime Minister mocking protesters at a donor event began to circulate, my anger turned to rage.

These protesters wanted justice for the people of Grassy Narrows, who for generations have suffered the effects of widespread mercury poisoning — a result of river-contamination from a long-shuttered paper mill and government inaction to the disaster for decades following.

The advocates were asking for desperately needed help. But as a protester is ushered out of the $1,500-per-ticket event, the prime minister quips to the crowd, “Thank you for your donation.”

Trudeau ridiculed these people — possibly residents of Grassy Narrows with family suffering from effects of mercury contamination — to a delighted audience of wealthy donors.

Cue rage.

It’s uncommon to see politicians show their true colours so blatantly, and that is why I’d like to thank Justin Trudeau.

I consider myself left-leaning, but generally middle of the road. Progressive and what I’ll call “fiscally considerate” — glad to contribute my part for good and needed services. I vote on platforms and don’t align to any particular party.

In 2015, I liked what I heard from the federal Liberals:

Transparency from government? Great.

Open discourse with media and support for climate science? Awesome.

Reconciliation and funding for Indigenous communities? Finally.

Gender parity in cabinet? Love it.

I know what we hear in a campaign is the result of long hours and hard work before a word hits the ears of the public. Sometimes talking points align with personal values, but the purpose of the exercise is to resonate, solidify a base and swing votes.

That’s why authenticity is so hard to communicate. Empathy can’t be scripted.

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Trudeau has since apologized, but whether he’s sorry for his words or for the fact they went viral is unclear to me. If the people of Grassy Narrows and their supporters choose not to accept his apology, I can’t blame them.

There was nothing funny about the prime minister’s comments. His delivery was quick, smug and candid. And for many voters like me, it’s all we needed to hear.

Trust is hard to earn, especially in politics. It’s even harder to win back.

Sarah Del Giallo is a senior communications consultant at Enterprise.

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