When Bill English emerged from National's caucus retreat last week saying he had the full backing of his party for the leadership, it felt like a sign. They always say that stuff, right before they quit. I said at the time I felt uncomfortable with him saying that, because it often doesn't ring true with actual outcomes.
He was a steady pair of hands post their rockstar leader John Key's departure, and he's been dealt a fairly bad hand. His 27 years in politics hasn't reflected his talent, and although he's served the country well as a solid straight up and down political heavyweight, he's never really had the chance to truly shine.
I also thought he was performing well in opposition. He played the ball, not the (wo)man, he was considered, and strong. And that's another reason he could've stayed. He's one of presumably only a handful of men who could go up against Jacinda in this current climate, and not look like a chauvinistic mansplaining moron. A loving family man respectful of a fellow parent and politician.
I just hope he's truly made this decision of his own accord. That his comment about sitting on the couch staring out at the scenery in Dipton and thinking "wouldn't it be nice not to have to answer media questions" is true. Because if it is, then he'll be at peace with it, and he won't lose a minute's sleep over it. Families with parents in the public eye get a bum deal. A chance to be just Dad for a while will be welcome respite.
But if his departure is the result of Macchiavellian in-party antics, media pundits posturing that he should go, and a wave of subsequent self-doubt, then it's a shame.
