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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
World
Max Harris

When people feel hopeless about politics, ‘vote-tripling’ can inspire them. Could it work for New Zealand?

Election signs for Freedoms NZ, the Green party and Labour ahead of the election on 14 October.
Election signs for Freedoms NZ, the Green party and Labour ahead of the election on 14 October. Photograph: Ben Mckay/AAP

New Zealand comedian Chris Parker recently released a clip on “People of the NZ Election”, showcasing the familiar cast of characters who crop up every time voting comes around.

There’s “The Frustrating Defeatist”, who thinks voting won’t make a difference. There’s the “The Amateur Journalist”, stroking his chin, commenting on the latest polling results. Then there’s “The One Who Treats Voting Day Like their Birthday”, geekily bursting with enthusiasm: “Let’s get out there and exercise our democratic right!” And “The Hopeful Optimist”: “We could rally together … hit the streets! We could really turn things around in our direction! Let’s get our phones, let’s start calling people – set up a flashmob!”

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