I don’t imagine most readers of Alas follow Australian politics particularly closely – neither do I. The main political issues I’ve followed have been union issues, racism against immigrants and indigenous issues, particularly the invasion of the Northern Territories. The common theme in all this is that Australian Prime Minister is an evil racist troglodyte. ((The other theme is that the opposition Labour party also sucks beyond the telling of it))
Australia had elections yesterday and after eleven years in power the Howard government was finally defeated. I’m not really celebrating that – not being a huge fan of the Australian Labour party. But I do take some small joy, because it looks like John Howard lost his seat, and won’t even get back into parliament. Assholes losing their jobs is the highlight of any election.
We are celebrating for the simple fact that the Rodent no longer has the power to wreck our nation.
That and the fact that the Greens will hold the balance of power!
Not knowing anything about Australian politics but on the basis of my estimation of politicians in general, I’ll ask; on what basis do the incoming assholes differ from the outgoing assholes?
Ronf, in terms of economic policy, bugger all.
It’s the humanitarian aspect that’s different for my money – attitude towards indigenous Australia, they’ll ratify the Koyoto protocal, whilst Howard spent years denying Global Warming exists, Howard endorsed – nay, set up – the compulsory detention of “illegal” immigrants – to the point where IF they are found to be legal or are granted Visas, they have to pay for their stay in detention.
Those are important factors for me, and determined my vote.