Lightning Rod (Noun)

A metallic conductor that is attached to a high point and leads to the ground; protects the building from destruction by lightning.

Nouns denoting man-made objects.

Someone who is a frequent target of negative reactions and serves to distract attention from another.

Nouns denoting people.

The outspoken company spokesperson was often seen as a lightning rod for criticism, drawing attention away from the CEO's own mistakes.
As a vocal advocate for the unpopular policy, she became a lightning rod for public anger and frustration.
The team's star player was used as a lightning rod for the coach's poor strategy, taking the blame for the team's losses.
The whistleblower who first came forward was made a lightning rod for ridicule and scorn, deflecting attention from the corrupt government officials.
As the most visible member of the troubled department, he was seen as a lightning rod for criticism, absorbing the negative attention that would otherwise be directed at his colleagues.