What politicians are ‘trying to do’ with nicknames and name changes

A long-time political strategist says politicians push nicknames and changes in the hope of “pretending to be normal” and relatable.

It comes after the opposition leader was referred to as Matt Guy in a Coalition press release, not Matthew as previously.

Similarly, Daniel Andrews goes by Dan.

“When you shorten your name, it implies you’re likeable and relaxed and suggests you’ve got friends who call you that,” Toby Ralph told Neil Mitchell.

“It just makes you look a bit more human.

“That’s why they’re trying to do.

“Matthew sounds like an accountant who is going to overcharge you, whereas Matt is somebody who’d come over and fix your car for you.”

Press PLAY below to hear him explain why politicians shorten their names

(Photo by Michael Dodge/Getty Images)