By Ashley Church
Dear Chris,
Congratulations on the success you’ve had in re-energising the National party. Under your leadership it’s likely that National will be in a position to form the next Govt and begin the long process of fixing the chaos wrought on our nation over the past five years.
But Chris – as much as there is confidence in your economic credentials – there is real concern about your social credentials and, in particular, Nationals move to the Left on key matters of social policy.
I understand why you’re doing this – you believe this move will secure votes from those on the left who skew toward a more (so-called) ‘Progressive’ mix of social policies.
But with every vote you might gain on the left, you risk losing one on the right – and the old adage that ‘those people will vote for us anyway’ is no longer true.
No doubt you’re watching the proliferation of new parties being formed on the right. None of this is happening by accident. These small parties and their supporters are made up of people who are watching National slide off in the other direction and while none of them is likely to enter Parliament next year, their combined vote could be significant and may even be the difference between you being able to form a Govt or staying in opposition. Let’s hope not.
If you doubt the strength of this mood change, I invite you to review the results of the recent Council elections. While this was not an election for central govt, the message was very clear. Kiwis have had enough of being dictated to and told what they’re allowed to think and they’re looking for leadership that supports and protects their fundamental freedoms. The strength of that result should give you confidence that the traditional centre is still where it has always been and that the country hasn’t veered off to the far left as some had been claiming.
And the thing is, you don’t have to do much to win back those who are currently looking elsewhere. Mostly, kiwis just want you to reinforce your commitment to basic freedoms. Freedom of speech (except where it reaches the level of incitement to violence), freedom of self-expression for all (‘diversity’ is a two way street that is not legitimate unless it also recognises the worldview of those who adhere to traditional values), and the freedom for individuals and families to get ahead without constant Govt interference. You don’t have to agree with a view – just support the right of someone to hold it.
Yes, these policies may lose you a few votes on the left – but they’ll win back others that have abandoned you. On balance, it’s probably an equal trade.
Best wishes for the next twelve months. There’s a lot riding on what you do now.
