It’s no secret that I’m excited about the election later this year. I really enjoy campaigning, and going into this year’s election Labour is rearing to go and fighting fit. We’ve got a rejuvenated team, and a set of policies that will make important investments in our people, ensuring that everyone will have the opportunity to get ahead.
Part of my excitement stems from my friend Jacinda Ardern becoming Labour’s Deputy Leader. She brings generosity of spirit, clear objectives and approachability to sit alongside Labour Leader Andrew Little’s proven leadership, unwavering calm, and steely determination. She also shares my values—that people, no matter their background, deserve the opportunity to make the best of their lot.
Jacinda and I go way back. We were friends before either of us stood for Parliament. Since I have been in Parliament, our offices have been neighbouring. We have worked together on numerous policies, most recently co-authoring a paper for Labour’s two-year-long Future of Work commission. Over the past year, we have also been bench-mates, seated adjacent in Parliament. I’m proud of her promotion to the Deputy Leadership—it’s always nice to see a friend succeed!
The thing that I admire about Jacinda is the way she rises above personal politics – and gets cut through for it in the media. She has lead on significant and complex policy development that has been driven by her strong progressive values. This has included our dole to apprenticeship scheme and Labour’s Best Start package, which would provide thousands of families with children under three years old with extra financial support in order to give them (as the name suggests) the best start in life.
In the role of Deputy Leader, Jacinda will continue to be a voice for the interests of children and young people, as she has in the past as Labour’s Spokesperson for Children. I have no doubt that policy she has led development of will be implemented in Government. Those policies will be driven by our effort to restore the Kiwi Dream of a fairer society.
For all these reasons, Jacinda was confirmed unanimously by Labour MPs to take up the Deputy Leadership. Going forward, I’m convinced, more than ever, that we can win on September 23.
Of course, the thing I’m most excited about during the election campaign is talking to as many of you as I can. If you see me on campus, please do not hesitate to say ‘hi’ and ask me a question—I really do value it. Likewise, I’m on all social media as @DavidClarkMP so please be in touch!