There is now open speculation of Clark’s demise and the take over of Phil Goff.
It was the first time in 12 years that the issue of the Labour Party leadership has been openly and legitimately discussed as a possible negative rather than an asset – the last time was when Clark saw off a coup attempt in 1996. Goff was the natural subject: he never says “no comment,” and he is the most likely to become the next Labour leader if Labour loses the next election.
For his part he played it perfectly, confirming with conviction that Clark’s leadership was perfectly safe, and saying the party had not wasted a second on “interfactional strife” – not that there were factions any longer.
That is not doubted. But Goff is odds-on favourite to lead the party in Opposition if Clark loses the election.
Quietly there is speculation that blood is already on the floor, specifically the Ninth Floor. But is Goff really the player? Audrey speculates;
THE NEXT LABOUR LEADER
PHIL GOFF
Best bet since Maharey announced he was quitting and Mallard wrestled Henare in the corridors of Parliament.ANNETTE KING
More respected in the caucus and as able as Goff, but colleagues know better than to ask. She would refuse. She has found love and will do nothing to compromise it.AND THE NEXT GENERATION…
SHANE JONES
The perfect candidate on paper, expert in Maoritanga and Harvard-educated, but the first-termer is not experienced enough and not steeped in party culture.DAVID CUNLIFFE
Has won over the public for his strong leadership in health but has still not won over his caucus, who have as little regard for him as they do for his ego. Could be deputy material.CLAYTON COSGROVE
The Mike Moore acolyte has won respect from the Left of the party for his ability to put differences aside – but not that much respect.DARREN HUGHES
Clever, witty and able but needs another six years under his belt to shake off the kid-brother image and show his serious side.MARYAN STREET
A classic modern Labour MP – policy-driven feminist with a strong human rights bent – not as scary as she sounds. Could be an a contender for deputy to Goff.DAVID PARKER
Bright, methodical, a details man but has too much of an academic approach to the job.ANDREW LITTLE
Ruled himself out of Parliament next term but could do a Bob Hawke after 2011 if other leadership combinations have failed.
It will be fun watching the destruction. Personally I think that with the building of a Cult of Personality around the photoshopped image of Helen Clark may have consigned Labour to self-destruction.
