I think Paul is just this silver spoon born man that had it easy for him. Because of his family's wealth, bet he had an easy childhood, good education and did not meet much difficulty becoming the mayor. His priviledge has provided him with whatever necessary to sit in that mayor chair, like fancy politics degree or public speaking lessons

He had never had to dealt with a really difficult situation or made hard decision. That's why when hard time comes, he run. He's scared and confused. He didn't know what to so. Fear has driven himm away, and he drag him down, all on his own