My Love Affair with Politics

I have been voting since I was 18. The year was 2001. I walked into my local polling station and cast my first Labour vote. Little did I know that voting would always be important too me.

I am a strong believer that everyone must vote. I think it's every ones right. Not just because I'm a woman and 60 plus years ago I would not have been able too. But because we are lucky in our country that we can hold elections and not be forced to vote one way or another. It also frustrates me when people complain about the wrong people being in power. These are the same people who never vote. At least by voting you know you have done your part.

As it is glaringly obvious. I am a Labour supporter. I will probably always vote for the party. I will listen to what 'Tory' voters opinions are, but will more often than not not agree with what they are saying. So the last few days twitter has been all a buzz with the labour leadership race. Including various 'twibbons' where individuals can show there support. I believe that whoever (and I'm hoping David Miliband) becomes the next Labour party leader has the chance to really make a difference.

For young adults (18 to 30) we have be more invested in politics. After all it's our future that is in the politicians hands, no matter which party you support. All that I ask is that we should all do our bit. If there are things you are unhappy with let your local politicians know. How else are we suppose to get our voices heard.

Race for the Labour Leadership

On 6th May Labour no longer had the majority of votes to run the country. It soon became apparent that Gordon Brown was not going to be leader of his party for long. While I have always felt sorry for Gordon Brown, I too thought the party needed a new face.

David Miliband seems to be the frontrunner at the moment. I personally think David Miliband should be the most logical next party leader. He has been with the Labour party since 1994. Though wasn't elected to parliament till 2001. He also has the right mix of youth (44 yrs old) and experience (last Foreign Secretary). The most promising thing in David Miliband's rise is that he is part of a small group of Labour politicians known as 'Primrose Hill Gang'. These are advisor's and Labour politicians who were said to look beyond Tony Blair and Gordon Brown. And look to the future of the Labour party.

Ed Miliband, younger brother of David, is also seen as a good candidate. Though he is a lot less known than his older brother he too is said to be a member of the 'Primrose Hill Gang'. Ed Miliband seems to be the only person who can give David Miliband a run for his money.

Other candidates include: Ed Balls, Dianne Abbott and John McDonnell. All three are seen as key Labour party members. However they like the support from their peers that both Miliband brothers have inside the party.


(Photo Credit - Getty Images)

Lisa Marie
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