Not a good night
Well, the tories are forming a government here with the right wing ACT party which includes the architect of the neo-liberal blitzkreig in the 1980's. NZ'ers have essentially voted for change for the sake of change, with many in the middle class voting against their own interests. With a partner from its right, National will feel less bound to governing from the centre ground it campaigned on, this however may mean it is a one term government. Interesting is that it goes against the trend of conservative administrations being booted out in Australia and the US.
Helen Clark gave a great speech last night, then announced her resignation as leader of the Labour party with immediate effect. This came as a bit of a shock, but was obviously her Plan B, rather than staying on to hand over the reins next year. The new leadership is likely to be at the right of the party, so a real changing of the guard is occurring.
Whilst I am sad at the loss, it will accelerate the rejuvination of Labour and in three years time hopefully a return to the treasury benches. In the mean time, heres hoping the work of the last 9 years is not undone for a few pieces of silver each week..
Helen Clark gave a great speech last night, then announced her resignation as leader of the Labour party with immediate effect. This came as a bit of a shock, but was obviously her Plan B, rather than staying on to hand over the reins next year. The new leadership is likely to be at the right of the party, so a real changing of the guard is occurring.
Whilst I am sad at the loss, it will accelerate the rejuvination of Labour and in three years time hopefully a return to the treasury benches. In the mean time, heres hoping the work of the last 9 years is not undone for a few pieces of silver each week..