English is a stable, safe pair of hands. He's been overseeing the country's finances for many years now and knows the inner workings of the Government. But, he's already had one crack at leading the party - National suffered it's worst electoral defeat with him at the helm, and lacks the charisma and relatability Key had.
Bridges, however, is much more relatable and has more of the down-to-earth Kiwi bloke persona that made Mr Key so successful. His relative youth may also help the party gain some of the elusive younger vote.
That said, he has a tough battle on his hands with Paula Bennett also a strong contender for the deputy position. She has perhaps a higher profile than Bridges and is also a strong, fairly relatable personality.
I think both candidates could provide the balance needed for National, under the leadership of English, to do well at next year's election.
However, as a Tauranga resident, I'm rooting for our local man.
He may be less accessible to locals as deputy prime minister but he would certainly have the power to affect change in our community.
