I never touch a citizen unless they swear they won’t ask me to vote for them. I do like it when they beg though.

But I guess it’s different if you’re actually running for office. Then it’s probably like a heyena sizing up a wildebeast. If they’re too weak to get away, make your move.

I’m friends with some politicians from my job so when we see each other, we kiss hello.

When you extend your hand to a politician, they will shake it. If you don’t, if you just give them a little wave, they’ll know to keep their distance.

Does this include candles and a bottle of wine?

I’ll check with Mario.

For many many years I have cringed when politicians shake hands in crowds and hold other people’s babies. I thought maybe COVID would cure that practice, but doubtful.

As @jca2 said I think they wait for someone else to make the move first, but that can also be difficult, because when caught up in shaking a lot of hands then often times everyone is extending their hand at once and you can easily get caught up in the moment. Plus, it’s a habit hard to break when meeting people.

Keep your hands to yourself at all times unless someone instigates the ‘touch’, which is generally a handshake.
Hopefully Covid has taught people to be more respectful. I am being asked before hugs in my area, even from close friends.

Politician or not, you never touch someone unasked.
Is what I think about it.
For all you know a small, ‘innocent/friendly’, touch, might be a trigger for someone to get a PTSD flashback.
Better safe than sorry.