Reasonable debate was refreshing

Mark Dawson, Editor of Wanganui Chronicle

Amid an election campaign marked by scandal, accusations and potentially-sensational revelations, the Chronicle candidates' forum last Friday provided a welcome antidote, offering good manners and reasoned argument rather than "dirty politics".

The nine candidates all gave strong presentations for an audience of about 300 at the War Memorial Centre and we can believe that - whoever wins out - Whanganui and Te Tai Hauauru will both be represented by worthy MPs.

Hamish McDouall, standing for Labour in Whanganui, carried a touch of evangelism as he spoke of his party's vision to lift those struggling in society. His powerful and aspirational words were well-received by the audience.

In contrast, National's incumbent MP Chester Borrows delivered in more muted, down-to-earth tones, talking about the behind-the-scenes work an MP does for their community. A recent letter to the editor noted his humility, and that characteristic was clearly evident.

Nancy Tuaine, for the Maori Party, showed herself to be a valuable addition to the race as a popular and most engaging speaker.

ACT's Alan Davidson was unwavering in his conviction to his party's manifesto, while Heather Marion Smith proved a remarkably passionate advocate for Social Credit policy as she homed in on the huge amounts of interest New Zealand pays to service overseas debt.

Standing for Te Tai Hauauru, Maori's Chris McKenzie was arguably the smoothest and most assured performer of the night, but Adrian Rurawhe's enthusiasm for the Labour cause appears to be running him close.

Jordan Winiata argued impressively for Mana's bid to engage the young and disengaged, while Jack McDonald could probably have talked all night, such is his zeal for the Greens' environmental concerns. At just 21, Mr McDonald is someone we could well see figuring on the national political stage.

The Conservative Party candidate was missing in action ... but didn't appear to be missed.

If America's NSA spy network was, indeed, listening in, it would have been impressed.