Just been thinking about how Carter is playing this. He clearly hopes that there are enough people in the rainbow part of Labour to nominate someone like Charles Chauval or Steve Chadwick for the job. He wants to be back in and vindicated as Aunties Favourite son (TM). I consider this a move that looks smart on Cuba St., is seen as stupid within the Beltway, and downright treacherous outside of Wellington.

If this does not work — and the right rump will not want to move until April 2012. George Hawkins is LIKED in Papakura and if he resigns the seat could go national. Te Atatu is gentrifying. Paula is a Westie and Crusher is a honorary Westie. They could easily win it.

It will cost Labour effort and cash (they have neither) to defend the seat. If they fail, the left might move to ally with the Red edge of the Greens. The Rainbow will be left out in the cold.

Phil has very limited room to manoeuvre. And this is not his fault. If you are a progrssive, denounce Carter as a hater and wrecker. If you of the right, push harder and encourage him to continue to make mistakes.,