What the Fallacy?!
Tu Quoque
The Definition
Avoiding having to engage with political criticism by turning it back on the accuser - answering criticism with criticism.
The Explanation
Commonly employed as a red herring in politics, this 'whataboutism' takes the heat off a politician having to defend their record and shifts focus back to the opponent's flaws.
Political Example
When the Representative was questioned about his unethical campaign financing, his spokesperson immediately replied, 'Well, what about the time your candidate accepted questionable donations five years ago?'