Well it seems that almost daily there are incidents that are causing a loss of traction for the National party. The solid coalition seems much less so and as the minor parties fight to maintain their differences and agreements seem to fade into the background. The way that the PM has handled things has not impressed some of his supporters and talk back radio has expressed strong disapproval over some of the actions taken. The up coming referendum on the “smacking” bill a major issue in the last election, John Key has stated he will not be voting and there will be no change to the law as a result of the referendum. The issues around the resignation of a recent Minister has also not been well handled. People are also wondering where the assistance for jobs and working through economic situation is and in what form this assistance will be delivered.
Many Supporters Now Disenchanted
One of the groups who were most supportive of the National parties bid for election are now “luke warm” or left cold after John Key spoke at the NZ Forum on the Family. Some of those present had worked arduously for months to get a referendum on the “the anti-smacking laws”. When John Key stated “If I can see compelling evidence that the legislation is not working, I will change it,” ……. “To this day I haven’t seen this evidence.” He left large numbers of people “gob smacked” and astounded with his statements, and this fall out has continued with those who were not present at the forum expressing their dismay and disbelief on “talk back” radio and in newspapers and on blogs.