Soft-spoken David Pocock has big ambitions – but first he wants politicians to ‘double down’ on kindness
Independent Australian Senator David Pocock used his first speech at the National Press Club to advocate for improved political behavior and a higher standard of kindness in parliament. Condemning question time as a 'disgrace,' he urged colleagues to double down on civility following an alleged violent attack on independent MP Helen Haines.
Why it matters
Reflects growing public and parliamentary concern over toxic political discourse and the rising prominence of political independents in Australia.
David Pocock says parliament’s question time is a ‘disgrace’ and urges a better standard of political behaviour. Photograph: Lukas Coch/AAP David Pocock says parliament’s question time is a ‘disgrace’ and urges a better standard of political behaviour. Photograph: Lukas Coch/AAP David Pocock Analysis Soft-spoken David Pocock has big ambitions – but first he wants politicians to ‘double down’ on kindness Josh Butler Independent senator’s goals ‘much bigger’ than prime ministership, he reveals in first speech to National Press Club
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He’s six foot tall and full of muscle, but David Pocock’s real strength is often sounding like the most sensible, commonsense voice in the room.
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