“One bad poll and the Liberal-National coalition hastily pulls out their emergency plans.” says imnofox. “The cynicism of this government knows no bounds- the Liberal Party have made an absolute fool of themselves by succumbing to social conservatism and the National Party’s economic populism for a last-minute swing to retain power.”

“Voters didn’t elect one big conservative bloc. They voted for a socially liberal alternative, that values the liberalisation of drugs, that values rehabilitative justice, that values a free society. After seeing a devastating poll for the government, the Liberals have abandoned ‘liberalism’ and goose-stepped into place, falling in line with the most inactive and ineffective political party seen in decades.” continues imnofox. “It’s clear that the only party voters can rely on for sensible drug reform, rehabilitative justice reform, and a free and liberal society is the Green Party.”

“The Greens are not concerned by this merger. It means little for the left- it’s the same unwieldy beast with the same disastrous policies. The only difference is that the Liberals have finally come clean: their lack of principles and a backbone of jelly have turned them into a shell of their former selves. Once, ACT espoused principled advocacy for free markets and social liberty. Now, they’ve resorted to becoming a faction of the second oldest party this country has to offer.” says imnofox. “I only feel sorry for Reform, who no doubt feel greatly overshadowed by frankenstein’s hulking conservative monster.”

“The Greens don’t play silly games. We’ll stick by our principles, both in and out of government, as we have done for the last 4 terms and will continue to do so. Unlike the government party, we don’t have an identity crisis every term, frightened by focus groups and opinion polling. Campaigns shouldn’t be driven by what ‘plays well’ with this and that demographic. They shouldn’t be micromanaged by some committee. This merger is just the natural course of that type of cynical politics.” says imnofox. “Only by standing up for what you believe in, not what appeals well in a survey, can you make meaningful progressive change. Voters have seen the Liberal Party’s unprincipled betrayal. And after a week of shambolic governance and intentional democratic disengagement, the fish won’t bite.”

“I’m proud to be party of this strong and stable coalition, that puts people and the planet first, not themselves and their careers.”