Incumbent Labour MP and candidate for Waikato-Rangitikei spoke to The Most FM 100.4 today about the upcoming election.

S: "Hey alpine-, how you doing?

A: "Good thanks Steve, what about you?

S: "Awesome, thanks for coming in today.

A: "Well thanks for having me!

S: "So alpine-, the election is on 6 January. Where will you be when the votes are counted?

A: "Chewing my nails at home in Napier. Probably having a nice chardonnay too.

laughter

S: "Let's talk about that. Newspapers have classed you as the best candidate of the election, mainly because of your unique personality and charisma. It's something we rarely see in politics. Do you attribute some of your success to that?

A: "Of course Steve. I've advertised that my diversity from other candidates is what allows me to better understand my constituents and their needs. Unlike many other politicians, I have empathy for the children living in poverty, or the stay-at-home mums that have to go back to work to make ends meet.

S: "I'm a big fan of that approach. A major point in your campaign has been that a continued Labour-led government is the best outcome for New Zealand. Can you explain why that is?

A: "Certainly, Steve. The opposition parties, National and Maori, have shown to be inconsistent on Maori rights and how best to achieve better equality for maori. National wants charter schools scrapped, an adored pet project of their partner ACT. The truth is that the issues this country faces are more widespread and interlinked than what fiscally-prude parties can successfully approach.

S: "With that in mind, what separates a Labour-led government from a Greens-led or other left party government.

A: "Great question, Steve. Labour ensures there is a balance between (for example) lowering greenhouse gas emissions and maximising profitability for our dairy farmers; something which the Greens in my opinion can exceed. Labour has its foundations rooted in improving worker's rights and conditions, and that is something a Labour-led government will always prioritise. These are the problems that face New Zealand, and only a continued Labour-led government is properly equipped to tackle them.

S: "Thanks for coming on air today--

A: "No problem Steve

S: "Is there anything you'd like to end on.

A: "Two ticks Labour on Saturday! it's been a tough campaign, but a great one. I can't wait to see everyone at the polls, and hopefully be returned to Parliament! I'm eager to get back to making this country the best it can be."

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