This Week in Politics
New Finnish President
Alexander Stubb of the ruling centre-right National Coalition won the Finnish presidential election on the 11th of February. However, was sworn in on the first of march. The results showcase the prevailing popularity of the National Coalition. Alongside reflecting the electorate closely attributing the governments decisions to Mr Stubb's party, great if the people view the choices as good otherwise not so much. Furthermore, Mr Stubb's election subsequently entailed the end for Sauli Niinistö the president for 12 years, each term being 6 years. Mr Niinistö worked with an astounding 6 Finnish Prime Ministers during his tenure, a new one ever 2 years, reflecting the fast changing nature of Finnish politics. Though the latter part of his time in office was less dramatic in terms of PM changes.
2 Primaries 2 Messages
Both the Republicans and Democrats have held their primaries in the state of Michigan. Both showcasing 2 different problems for the front-runners, however, alike in many ways. The GOP enjoyed significantly more voters in their primary, however, showcased larger division than the Democrats. The remainder of Nikki Haley as a strong minority reflects the distaste many Republicans have toward the former president. If said distaste is enough to act on remains to be seen, however, in a swing-state every vote matters and even slight defections could have profound impact. The strength of Ambassador Haley is worrisome for Mr Trump.
President Biden on the other hand does not need to worry about fellow primary candidates, however, an uproar of uncommitted votes in Michigan is cause for concern. Over 100 000 voters choose to use their vote as a protest toward the Biden administration's handling of the Gaza Strip. Michigan hold the largest percentile amount of muslims in the US, they have not been impressed by the president's actions. This protest vote is important and could be seen as Mr Biden's strongest contender in this primary vote. Every vote placed in protest showcases dissatisfaction whether that's enough to switch sides remains to be seen. However, Mr Biden's Haley is the uncommitted voters and he must act swiftly to secure these votes.
George Galloway's Return
George Galloway has won the Rochdale by-election in a landslide. Garnering near 40% for his party the workers party of Britain, the first constituency every won by the party founded in late 2019. Labour won the seat with over 50% in 2019, however, after comments about Israel and October 7 Labour disowned Azhar Ali, the party's nominee. Due to the late nature of the scandal the party could not file for a new candidate and Mr Ali was the Labour candidate on the ballot. This left the constituency wide open and Mr Galloway was a candidate, he campaigned heavily for the Palestinian cause and continued his strategy of appealing to muslim voters. Rochdale has a high muslim population and many endorsed Mr Galloway's. In his victory speech he said that Labour would "pay a high price" for Gaza.
Mitch McConnell to Step Down
Senate minority leader Mitch McConnell has stated that he will step down in November. Mr McConnell was one of Mr Trump's biggest adversaries in the GOP. His resignation opens a path for more influence to former president Trump. Mr McConnell was under increased pressure to step aside by those favouring the former president. He is the longest serving Senate leader in both parties history.
