TOP Party one to watch in this election

[justakiwi]

So you decide who you will vote for based on nothing more than "hope?" That is even more depressing than voting based on purely on policy.

In the Parliamentary system, you vote for people in "hope" that they will place policies in that would align with your interests. This is very different to over in America where a change from Republican to Democrats (and vice versa) means a complete executive order to undo each party's policies.

Of course they will. Just as people have already forgotten National's historical failings over time.

Here's the real problem in NZ. In 10 years time everyone would have forgot what the Labour Party did and vote for them in power... time after time.

The real problem is not people's selective memories. It is the fact that NZ has always had a two party system, which will clearly never change. Our choices as voters have always been limited. The fringe parties are nothing more than a distraction and a waste of votes for those gullible enough to vote for them. Parties like the Greens and NZF, have a small ability to disrupt the status quo, but their impact is minimal. ACT is clearly the only minor party currently with any clout, but a National/ACT coalition disturbs me greatly. I could be convinced to vote National right now, but a vote for National is a vote for that coalition.

Honestly, it puzzles me how complacent some of you are right now. I get that you want Labour gone. So do I now, but very few here seem even remotely interested in what the alternatives actually have to offer. You are settling without questioning, just to insure Labour loses.

[Daytr]

Just use your vote in the most effective way against the party you think will do the most damage.

Yes voting tactically is quite likely the way it will go for me.

[Getty]

Mighty oaks from little acorns grow.

Some get TOPped, but many don't.

[Daytr]

I get this, but it pisses me off royally, that our current political situation is forcing voters to “settle” for a party they do not support or want to vote for, purely to ensure the current Government they also don’t support or want to vote for - loses.

This is not how it should be and it makes a farce of democracy and NZ politics. I don’t know what the answer is, but something needs to change because we are stuck in a perpetual loop that we cannot get out of. We just keep on rinsing and repeating and achieving sweet Fanny Adams. Every time a new Government comes into power and reverses the previous government’s policies/decisions or whatever, it costs money, regardless of which party we are talking about. Our political system is ****ed.

I might yet vote for TOP, in fact they are the most likely candidate for my vote.
Whilst I don't agree with detail of some of their policies at least they are on the same trajectory.
They are also a party that wants to act on climate change which is a bottom line for me.

[justakiwi]

I respect your decision, but I think voting for any party that stands zero chance of winning a seat, is a wasted vote.

I might yet vote for TOP, in fact they are the most likely candidate for my vote.
Whilst I don't agree with detail of some of their policies at least they are on the same trajectory.
They are also a party that wants to act on climate change which is a bottom line for me.

[dln]

I respect your decision, but I think voting for any party that stands zero chance of winning a seat, is a wasted vote.

And adding 1 to the tally of a big party you don't like isn't?

[justakiwi]

I don't know. Right now, as I have said several times already, I have a dilemma. When I figure out how to resolve it I'll be sure to let you know.

Clearly many here are having a good laugh at me, but at least I am actually putting some thought into the situation. I take the vote that women fought really hard to get, very seriously. Maybe it is different for men, who have always had the privilege of voting, so take it for granted. I do not.

And adding 1 to the tally of a big party you don't like isn't?

[Azz]

National will win Ilam

[Baa_Baa]

A terrific outcome for TOP would be Manji winning the electorate and getting a seat in parliament, then National/Act only needing one extra seat to govern, anointing TOP on confidence and supply, giving NZ First the bird. Shades of Peter Dunne.

Lol, I'd buy popcorn and a beer to see that happen.

[Aaron]

I respect your decision, but I think voting for any party that stands zero chance of winning a seat, is a wasted vote.

"you must be the change you wish to see in the world" Ask Mahatma it worked for him eventually. Other than running for parliament voting TOP might be your best bet.

Ironic that someone called Baa Baa is encouraging us to follow the herd or should I say flock. TOP a potentially wasted vote no doubt but what are the options. National or Labour will lead the next govt and they represent more of the same no matter who gets in so does it matter that much. Just more annoying tinkering to placate the voters from those two parties.

P.s. the internet tells me this epic quote was not actually what Ghandi said I will leave it there anyway.