Bratty Summer as a President  

Former Prime Minister and out-of-work DJ Jacinda Ardern recently joined Oprah, The Obama’s, Megan Thee Stallion and Charlie XCX in endorsing Kamala Harris as she officially became the Democratic nominee last week. Recent polling even had her within the margin or error in Texas and North Carolina which may be the first sign of the apocalypse. But if you really want to know how popular she is then you should look at the Talbot Mills poll that first appeared in the New Zealand Herald on August 23, 2024. (below) with the shocking revelation that people who vote for Trump. also like Winston Peters. 

  • Green: 66% Harris, 8% Trump 
  • Labour 65% Harris, 14% Trump 
  • National: 55% Harris, 26% Trump 
  • Act: 47% Harris, 32% Trump 
  • Te Pati Māori: 45% Harris, 18% Trump 
  • NZ First 35% Harris, 48% Trump 

 

Erm, what the flip…again?  

OP/ED: As a queer person, I cannot comprehend how loving another being and self-expression is sinister and unnatural. How many times have a heterosexual couple gone outside and been so afraid of what people might say or do to you? This is the second time I have to write about a hate crime towards the LGBTQ+ community and I’m disappointed. 

Love is in the air as Queenstown is celebrating its Winter Pride. The day before the parade, a group of thieves was after around 29 flags that cost $400 each to produce. The police released CCTV images of the group stealing and cutting the flags. Winter Pride co-organiser Sam Coulthard claimed the act of vandalism was not only an attack on property but it also “sends a troubling message to our community and raises concerns about small-town homophobia”. 

 

Drive safer…on a learner  

The AA Research Foundation has proposed extending the learner licensing period from 6 to 12 months in response to the tragically increased number of youth road deaths. The AA road safety spokesperson suggested this as the first step in addressing this year’s road safety objectives, focusing on the quality during the learner to restricted license transition. However, many online users argue that poor road conditions, which affect beginner drivers’ judgment, are a major contributing factor. Depending on the upcoming update from the AA, the driving licensing system may change for better or for worse. All we know is that the booking process for the test will remain as busy as it has always been. 

 

Baby fever  

On August 24th, the Biebers finally welcomed their first baby boy and introduced him to the public as Jack Blues Bieber. Justin Bieber posted a picture with Hailey’s hand gently holding their firstborn baby’s feet with the caption “Welcome home”. The former teenage heartthrob who performed the childhood hit Baby is now officially a dad with a loving family (feel old yet?). The birth of Jack Blues Bieber is not only a joy for the couple but also a remarkable moment for fans and supporters worldwide. My best wishes to the little one, Justin, Hailey, and their future journey together!