Resignation will follow envoy's election party

By AUDREY YOUNG


United States Ambassador Charles Swindells helped with the final decorations for today's election party at the embassy in Wellington.

But custom has it that after the result is known, he will have to resign no matter who wins, and await reappointment or replacement.

And it also dictates that he stay non-partisan and show no favour to the man whom he financially supported last election and who appointed him, President George W. Bush, over contender Senator John Kerry.

Mr Swindells expects at least 250 guests to watch the presidential election results roll in this afternoon. Polls close at 1pm (New Zealand time).

He says the function will replicate in a New Zealand setting what goes on all over the United States, marking elections of not just the President by other officials such as mayors and the Congress.

"It is very festive and it actually really does bring a community together on election night in America. And we'll have a piece of that at the embassy. I'm excited because it really just speaks what democracies are all about."

The worldwide interest, particularly from New Zealand, was "outstanding" and very healthy.

"New Zealand having a better understanding of our political process is going to provide them with a better understanding of how our policies come into effect," he said.

"I'm still working on understanding your MMP."