Local government elections are coming up fast, and an increasing number of candidates are becoming affiliated with political parties. Research from Auckland University of Technology shows that since Auckland became amalgamated, more candidates are opting to affiliate themselves with Labour, the Greens and National than ever before. Research also shows these candidates are doing better than those running as independents. Lachlan Balfour spoke with Karen Webster about this research and how party affiliation can affect local government elections.

Karen Webster is a Senior Lecturer in Public Policy at AUT. She is an expert in local government politics and policy.

Podcast:

 

This interview originally aired on 95bFM’s weekly news and current affairs show The Wire. For more stories like this, click here.

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Disclaimer: The ideas expressed in this discussion reflect the views of the guest and not necessarily the views of The Big Q. 

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