Autistic politicans

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Hey guys! This is something I have been thinking about on and off for awhile now and would like some opinions. Do you think a high functioning Autistic person would make a good politician*? Why or why not? Do you think Autism would be an asset, a obstacle, or do you think it wouldn't make a difference? If you found out a politician was Autistic would you be more or less likely to vote for them? Have there ever been any successful Autistic politicians?


*Although I am talking about governmental politicians technically students like ASB presidents would also count.

As I understand it, gaining any significant political power takes serious socializing. You need to know lots of people, be capable of manipulating others, be quick-wittted, have a thick skin, and you must be capable of making hard decisions expediently. Political life would be nightmarish for me.

I believe an autistic politician is possible in some shape or form. I have read somewhere that Thomas Jefferson was rumoured to be autistic. Whether it is true or not, the fact is that this speculation could be used as a positive for having an autistic politician.

An autistic politician would be a breath of fresh air due to their integrity, reliability and determination to make the world a better place in some way. I think Bill Gates could be on the spectrum. He is doing some great things with his foundation. I regard him as a strong political influence.

Any thoughts on this?

P.S.

Al Gore is also rumoured to be on the spectrum.