A lot of things were "counted" to people "as righteousness" before Jesus, usually involving some action showing they believed what God said.
I guess I see your point. We as humans are always "hoping" for something we know might not happen and that keeps us going. Is that it?
So, even though politicians may fail my atheist relatives, they will probably just "hope" for other things along the way and that will distract them from seeing the futility of it all. That makes me feel better for them. Thanks!