[mynegation]

For many, this is an investment into a name recognition and making important connections. After they retire, they are hired by law and lobbying firms, financial institutions, and companies in other industries that may benefit from their connections (famous "revolving door") as lobbyists and power brokers. This is when and where they make most of their money.

[bumby]

Sometimes I wonder if the mindset on HN seems to unhealthily skew towards the “hustle”.

Believe it or not there are people who get into public service for the “service” aspect and not just because it’s some calculated career move.

[Spooky23]

Always. HN is business and tech.

[bumby]

It’s more the “unhealthy” part that concerns me, not necessarily the hustle.

Hustle in business is good for society. Unhealthy hustle where you forsake everything for some Pyrrhic victory is not.

[moosebear847]

The kinda people that make it to the top in politics, are the hustlers.

[bumby]

I don’t know that I have enough information to disagree broadly, but the OP was specifically about mayors. I’m not sure if I’d consider that the “top” of politics (granting its always somewhat subjective)