Hon Jim Anderton

Progressive Party leader

5 November 2008 Media Statement

Senator Barack Obama's win

Senator Obama’s win in the US elections is a turning point in history towards progressive policies, Progressive leader Jim Anderton says.

“Today marks the end of the era begun by Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan in 1980 – two failed ideas of the past have been discredited: that governments have no role in building stronger economies, and that democracies should start wars.

“With change in America, if National were to form a government after this weekend New Zealand would become the only country in the Western world that still subscribed to those failed policies of the past

“I also pay tribute to the achievements of Senator McCain, who is a great friend of New Zealand and an enthusiast for better trade access for our exports.

“I hope the new President will also welcome the economic strength that fair trade agreements can contribute at this time when the world needs strength and when it needs caring government.”

www.supportprogressive.org.nz

This statement is issued by Jim Anderton. MPs' press releases and speeches are part of the normal course of business of elected representatives. We do not believe they are election advertisements within the Electoral Finance Act, and nor was the Act intended to apply to them. However, because some people are confused about the Act, and because the Progressive Party is proud to confirm our responsibility for what we say, this statement is authorised by Phil Clearwater, 5 Sherwood Lane, Christchurch.

ENDS

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