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Open Mike 23/10/2026
7 comments on “Open Mike 23/10/2026”
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Surely it is politics 101 to not be filmed or photographed being chummy with members of organised criminal cartels, especially in the last few weeks of a general election campaign?
You'd also think it's 101 to not put your Leader in a difficult spot by not being completly forthcoming when caught doing it.
Hipkins only option is to condemn the meeting and immediately demote her to 71st place on the list.
He almost has to as his desperation to appear as close to Luxons position on this leaves him no wriggle room.
But on the other hand, why shouldn't a politician, during an election campaign, talk to potential voters no matter who they are, or what their way of life. Hipkins should admit that his party member has spoken to one of the gangs, and then accused Luxon of engaging in smear tactics.
Because their are some voters whose votes you'd rather not want to have. Like the Mowbrays, or gang members.
In the maelstrom of politicians being photographed with gang members there is the issue of politicians, especially female pollies of colour, being subjected to record levels of abuse.
Bob Dylan's observation that he was robbed by more people with a pen than a knife comes to mind.
From memory (in my opinion) Judith Collins was caught being intimately involved in online abuse, leaks and smears of public figures/political enemies. Paula Bennett was another caught punching down.
Can Standardistas add to the list of political figures taking part in this nefarious behaviour?