If he carries on the way he is in the polls, he could well be in the double digits — well into the double digits — by the time November’s election rolls around. He’s already sitting somewhere between 10 and 12 percent in the past couple of polls, and generally minor parties go up in polling the closer we get to election day because of the extra attention they get during the campaign.
Commentators are already talking about the possibility of the next government being just National and New Zealand First — no ACT in there — with the two of them together potentially being enough. That could happen if Winston keeps climbing the way he is, and obviously if National can get its act together and lift its vote share.
If you don’t believe it’s possible that Winston will climb further, just look at what he did this week. He pulled out that classic Winston trick of whipping up the anti‑immigrant rhetoric again. I honestly didn’t think there was much of that sentiment around at the moment — until he started talking, and suddenly the texts about immigrants started rolling in.
Winston can sniff out an election platform like no one else. He knows there’s probably an increased number of people who are gagging for a conspiracy — like “the government is trying to hide the FTA documents they’re trying to roll on us". And what we were also reminded of this week is that he’s completely unencumbered by the facts. A lot of what he said was just complete nonsense.
Here’s a question for you: if it does end up being just New Zealand First and National, and Winston is 81 years old, is this the election where he finally pushes for a turn at being Prime Minister?
Like I said, he could become the story of this election year.
Heather du Plessis-Allan is a journalist and commentator who hosts Newstalk ZB's Drive show. This article was sourced from Newstalk ZB.
8 comments:
The 'neverending' story.
If NZF campaigns on equal citizenship, they will do very well. Winston is Prime Ministerial.
I am not sure if the public realise how much taxpayer money NZF have tipped into maori.The realisation should severely trim enthusiasm for what otherwise sees a rational party.
If he thinks there are enough votes in it for NZF, Winston may well choose to campaign on equal citizenship. Just don’t rely on him to do anything about it in government. He’s always been far better at political campaigning than delivering.
Du Plessis, Why write that Peters did his "classic trick" of "whipping up anti immigrant rhetoric"? Are you mad? Did you not notice concerns about high rates of immigration are of massive concern to voters in many countries in the world? I read Winston's comments. He queried how wrapped up in the NZ India trade agreement were greater rights of folks from India to immigrate here. It odd for a trade agreement which typically covers goods and services to address immigration issues as well. I last met Winston at a party held at the house of the owner of a radio station in Auckland pitched to the Indian community. He's a great supporter of this community in NZ, as I am. I think Parmjeet Palmer is one of our best MPs. So stop writing nonsense saying Winston is playing the race card and whipping up anti migrant sentiment, Heather. Its disgusting. Stop vacuous commentary and just ask questions of your guests.
Heather doesnot mention that the only way NZFirst can get more votes is take them from National or Labour.TPM and the Greens are unlikely to supply NZ1 with votes and it would likely only a small amount would swing from ACT to NZ1. Nation is likely to be the big loser so it really is a shuffle of the deckchairs with an increased NZFirst influence. Nothing wrong with that.
NZ First. One Nation (Australia).
Both Parties have "a singular person, who is always front of House" and 'talks up a storm', and always in front of a Media group, that must include TV Cameras.
Both are 'polling' well in their respective Countries.
Problem -
NZ 1st - does not have the collective number of MP's (other than what sit currently in Parliament, most are List MP's) to contest the many electorates across the Land.
On Nation - has only "one" person currently elected to the Australian Parliament, and observations from my desk, seems to lack 'people' who are willing to step into One Nation shoes, other than former 'wannabe' Politicians, who have no other work skills.
What ever the Aussie Polly Polls tell you, Head Honcho (at moment) is not popular with the many.
And sadly, the dear lady can at the drop of a verbal utterance, destroy her credibility.
Sadly, that these traits can also be applied to Winnie P, especially with the voting generation that matters.
Also keep in mind that Winnie P has past history in 'negotiating' deals that 'seem to have the me first requirement' .
Also, Winnie P 'was not in favour of the India FTA', the immigration factor was of a minimal concern.
Its is actually interesting that with said FTA, just how many commentators across NZ has actually highlighted the fact the - said FTA includes an immigration clause - which for many "raises concerns".
The TV screens are being polished, the radios tuned to the favourite Talk Back Host, print media will be scrutinized and on Election Night - Brian Edwards (on TVNZ) will "regale us with his certainty as to who will be the next Govt".
And on the Sunday morning, the breakfast comments will be -
- "Oh well here goes another year of talk fest & spending".
- "How in the hell did they get elected"
- "Looking to moving to Bali, this year".
Wiston Peters is a populist. He will say anything to get the votes, regardless. If polls say New Zealanders want two Christmas' a year, he will cmpaign on it. I will never trust him...
Post a Comment
Thank you for joining the discussion. Breaking Views welcomes respectful contributions that enrich the debate. Please ensure your comments are not defamatory, derogatory or disruptive. We appreciate your cooperation.