Albanese Apologizes for Tourette's Remark

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faced backlash after making an insensitive remark during Question Time, asking opposition frontbencher Angus Taylor, 'Have you got Tourette's or something?' This comment, made in response to interruptions, was quickly retracted, and Albanese later issued a formal apology, acknowledging that the remark was 'unkind and hurtful.' Critics, including disability advocates and opposition members, condemned the comment as an example of casual ableism, stressing the need for greater awareness and respect for those living with Tourette's syndrome. Mandy Maysey, President of the Tourette Syndrome Association of Australia, emphasized that such comments contribute to stigma and mockery of disabilities. Albanese's apology was seen by some, including Labor MP Julian Hill, as a mark of character, while others, like Liberal MP Keith Wolahan, insisted the remark reflected deeper issues in Albanese's approach to opposition. Overall, the incident has ignited discussions about the treatment of disabilities in political discourse.