The contrast between those blithe campaigns and this appalling landscape is unnerving, and raises profound questions about politicians and truth.
On Scottish independence and the Northern Ireland Protocol, constitutional questions will be front and centre in the leadership contest.
The First Minister hides behind the Supreme Court to avoid an unofficial referendum, but then plans to use an election as a ‘proxy’.
Also: on the centenary of his assassination, Unionist MP and war hero gunned down by IRA gets memorial in Parlaiment.
Also: the DUP can be forgiven for being sceptical that the Government will deliver on its Protocol promises.
If the policy was having its desired effect, you’d expect to see a drop in alcohol-related harms. Instead, you see no such thing.
Also: dissent in the ranks! Northern Irish activists attack neglect by CCHQ amidst rumours Welsh Tories may seek split.
Meanwhile observers are already speculating about whether today’s performance will cost Douglas Ross his job.
Also: it looks like it will be a good day for Labour in both Wales and Scotland as Douglas Ross struggles to make headway.
A judge-led enquiry into the ferry scandal and a unified national census are obvious starting points.
Also: Rees-Mogg once again talks tough on the Protocol – but does the Government really have the will to act?
Also: Sturgeon likened to Trump after she bans print journalists from SNP launch event.
The Prime Minister is now going to address Scottish conference. But if war creates pressure for unity, the local elections may not.
With traditional cluelessness, Westminster devolved planning policy without a carve-out for vital national infrastructure projects.
Also: devolved administrations cling tight to Covid powers; Lewis raises prospect of prosecuting terrorists; SNP retreat from pension lie.