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Humor and Quirks
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Former National MP Jami-Lee Ross bids for political comeback

Former National MP Jami-Lee Ross Eyes Political Revival with Bid for Howick Local Board Seat

In a surprising twist to New Zealand's political landscape, former National Party MP Jami-Lee Ross has announced his intention to stage a comeback by running for a seat on the Howick Local Board in Auckland. This move marks a potential new chapter for Ross, whose career has been marked by high-profile controversies, personal struggles, and previous failed attempts to re-enter the political arena. At 38 years old, Ross is positioning himself as a candidate focused on local issues, but his past looms large, raising questions about his viability and the public's reception.

Ross, who once represented the Botany electorate in Parliament from 2011 to 2020, was a rising star in the National Party before a dramatic fall from grace. His tenure ended amid explosive allegations and a very public meltdown that captivated the nation. In 2018, Ross leaked sensitive information about party donations, accusing then-leader Simon Bridges of electoral law breaches. This led to a bitter feud, with Ross resigning from the party and becoming an independent MP. The saga escalated when audio recordings surfaced, revealing heated exchanges and claims of corruption within National's ranks. Ross's actions were seen by some as whistleblowing, but others viewed them as a betrayal driven by personal ambition or vendetta.

The fallout was swift and severe. Ross faced intense scrutiny, including questions about his mental health. He was hospitalized following what was described as a mental health crisis, and in a candid admission, he later spoke openly about his struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts. This period was a low point, but Ross has since framed it as a turning point, emphasizing resilience and recovery. In interviews following the scandal, he has portrayed himself as a reformed figure, eager to contribute positively to public life.

Undeterred by his parliamentary exit, Ross attempted to rebuild his political career through other avenues. In 2020, he co-founded Advance NZ, a minor party that aligned with conspiracy theory elements, including anti-vaccination sentiments and ties to figures like Billy Te Kahika, a prominent Covid-19 skeptic. The party campaigned on themes of transparency and anti-establishment rhetoric, but it failed to gain traction. Advance NZ secured only 1% of the vote in the general election, falling short of the threshold for parliamentary representation. Ross himself contested the Botany seat but was defeated resoundingly, signaling a rejection by voters who may have associated him with division and controversy.

Now, Ross is shifting his focus to local government, a level often seen as a stepping stone for politicians seeking rehabilitation or a fresh start. The Howick Local Board is part of Auckland Council, overseeing community matters in the southeastern suburbs, including areas like Pakuranga, Howick, and Botany—regions Ross knows well from his time as MP. In his announcement, Ross highlighted his deep roots in the community, stating that he has lived in the area for most of his life and understands the everyday concerns of residents. "I'm passionate about making Howick a better place for families," he said in a statement. "From improving local parks and transport to ensuring efficient council services, I want to bring my experience to the table."

Ross's platform appears centered on practical, grassroots issues. He has pledged to advocate for better infrastructure, such as upgrading roads and public transport links to alleviate congestion in the growing suburb. Environmental concerns, like protecting local waterways and green spaces, are also on his agenda, reflecting Auckland's broader push towards sustainability. Additionally, Ross has touched on affordability, promising to scrutinize council spending to keep rates in check amid rising living costs. These points are designed to appeal to a local electorate that values pragmatism over national drama.

However, Ross's bid is not without skepticism. Political observers note that his history could alienate voters. The 2018 scandal, in particular, left a lasting impression. Simon Bridges, now a former MP himself, has previously described Ross's actions as "treacherous," and remnants of that animosity persist within National Party circles. Local commentators have questioned whether Ross can shake off the baggage. "Voters in Howick are conservative and community-oriented," said one Auckland political analyst. "They might appreciate his local knowledge, but the memory of his national blow-up could be a hard sell."

Ross has addressed these concerns head-on, acknowledging his past mistakes while emphasizing growth. In a recent interview, he reflected: "I've learned a lot from my experiences in Parliament. The highs and lows have made me a better advocate for mental health awareness and transparent governance. I'm not running from my history; I'm building on it." He has also distanced himself from the more fringe elements of Advance NZ, clarifying that his current campaign is independent and focused solely on local matters. This pivot suggests a strategic rebranding, aiming to portray Ross as a matured, community-minded figure rather than a national agitator.

The Howick Local Board election is part of the wider local body elections scheduled for October 2023. The board consists of nine members, elected to represent subdivisions within the Howick ward. Ross is running in the Botany subdivision, which overlaps with his former parliamentary electorate. Competition is expected to be stiff, with incumbents and new challengers vying for seats. Current board members include figures from various political backgrounds, including those aligned with National and Labour affiliates, though local boards are officially non-partisan.

Ross's entry into the race has sparked broader discussions about political redemption in New Zealand. The country has seen other politicians bounce back from scandals—think of figures like Donna Awatere Huata or even international parallels like disgraced leaders attempting comebacks. Supporters argue that everyone deserves a second chance, especially someone who has been open about personal vulnerabilities. Critics, however, worry that allowing controversial figures back into public office could undermine trust in institutions.

From a mental health perspective, Ross's story resonates with ongoing national conversations. New Zealand has made strides in destigmatizing mental illness, with campaigns like those from the Mental Health Foundation encouraging openness. Ross has become something of an advocate, sharing his journey in media appearances and public talks. "If my experiences can help one person seek help, then it's worth it," he has said. This aspect could humanize him to voters who prioritize empathy over perfection.

Locally, reactions are mixed. Some Howick residents express enthusiasm for Ross's familiarity with the area. "He knows the issues here—traffic, housing development, community safety," one local told reporters. Others are wary: "We need stable leadership, not someone with a history of drama." The Auckland Ratepayers' Alliance, a watchdog group, has weighed in, urging candidates to focus on fiscal responsibility, an area where Ross claims strength from his parliamentary finance committee experience.

As the campaign unfolds, Ross plans to engage directly with the community through town halls, door-knocking, and social media. He has launched a campaign website outlining his policies and inviting feedback. Funding for his bid remains unclear, but as a local election, it operates on a smaller scale than national contests, with spending caps in place.

Whether Ross succeeds could hinge on turnout and voter sentiment. Local elections in New Zealand often suffer from low participation—around 40% in recent cycles—meaning a motivated base could sway results. If elected, Ross would serve a three-year term, potentially using it as a launchpad for higher ambitions, though he insists his focus is purely local.

This bid represents more than just a personal comeback; it's a test of New Zealand's political forgiveness. In a small nation where reputations are hard to escape, Ross's journey from parliamentary pariah to local hopeful underscores the enduring allure of public service, even after profound setbacks. As election day approaches, all eyes will be on Howick to see if voters are ready to give Jami-Lee Ross another shot.

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Read the Full The New Zealand Herald Article at:
[ https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/politics/former-national-mp-jami-lee-ross-seeks-political-comeback-with-howick-local-board-bid/4G3CUWBWPBFC3LNLB32AIYZYPU/ ]