Firstly, congratulations to all those who won and condolences to those who didn’t (political friend and enemy alike).
Some thoughts, in no particular order:
John Key says he doesn’t need the Maori Party but if the specials come in like they did in 2008 he may lose a seat to the Greens and one to Labour. That means he may very much need the Maori party.
Act is effectively dead. National is now stuck with the problems Banks brings but no benefit in terms of extra MPs. In fact the stink around the deal to get him there may have cost National a governing majority.
Winston is back. I hope all you lefties who voted for him are happy with your choice.
It wasn’t a total hiding for Labour. There are some good MPs who have been lost but the base held (for the most part).
A disappointing show for Mana but it pays to remember the party didn’t exist six months ago. I think they’ll be a bigger player in 2014.
Turnout was low. There’s a steady decline in electoral disengagement – I think it’s partly due to horserace politics and partly a symptom of the postmodern condition. I think it is incumbent upon every political party to spend more time engaging its parliamentary arm with its party and with the broader community.
The Christchurch result is fascinating.
Phil Goff. What can I say. He ran a pretty good four week campaign but it came off the back of three years of poor performance. I think he’s done enough that he can step down with dignity.
There’s plenty more to think about – feel free to add your two cents.
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