Bayly’s Valedictory Reflections on Politics | Auckland News

Andrew Bayly, stepping down as MP for Port Waikato, delivered a raw, revealing valedictory speech about the brutal toll of politics—highlighting the crushing pressure, social media’s amplification of nastiness, and the near-impossible recruitment challenge for a career that demands resilience and often lacks proper support. He recalled the camaraderie of his 2014 cohort, the healing power of staying busy with projects like his Antarctic Parliamentarians Assembly, and the friendships forged across party lines. Bayly ends with a plea for tolerance and respect, arguing that even in the heat of elections, civility is essential for a functioning democracy.

...