Acknowledgement
Election days always start early and finish late, especially if you’re a candidate. Visiting lots of booths and talking to campaign helpers throughout the day, followed by gathering together at night to watch the results come in and thanking people collectively for all their hard work. When it’s a bad result for people, it can be especially hard to thank them enough, as they are more likely to feel all their work has been for nothing.
However, it is important to acknowledge all the work that so many people do – mostly unpaid or seriously underpaid – in the lead up to and on election day. When you are a candidate, it is quite humbling to have so many people sacrifice their time and money for you, and for the views and values you espouse or represent – let alone have people support you with their vote. There were also a lot of people who publicly supported me at this election when they didn’t need to and had nothing personally to gain by doing so.
Today’s election produced a fairly dismal result for the Democrats and for me in Queensland which will almost certainly see the end of the party’s representation in the parliament after 30 years. So as well as thanking people for their work and support during this campaign, I feel I must give a huge thanks to the many people who put in so much effort into the Democrats over 30 years and were part of producing so much of value.
Politics being what it is and people being what they are, no doubt there will be many people at the ready to point out past mistakes the party made and where things went wrong (although personally I think that’s mostly so obvious it barely needs discussion). But I would rather note the vastly greater number of things that the party did right and the very many positive impacts it has had. It is a legislative and political legacy that will live on for a long time – albeit in ways that will probably be mostly unacknowledged – regardless of where the party’s members choose to take the party from here.
Whether those things are properly acknowledged or not, they are certainly very real, and they would not have been achieved without the selfless efforts of literally thousands of people doing it mainly because they believed in an idea and wanted to help change the world for the better.
104 Comments, Comment or Ping
hc
Sorry Andrew, I think you were a good Senator and wish you have made it.
Nov 25th, 2007
Graeme McCowie
Andrew, I’m sorry to see you weren’t returned – I’ve always appreciated the frankness of your blog, and been impressed by your commitment to the Senate and Australian democracy. The post-Howard Senate will be poorer for your absence.
Nov 25th, 2007
edward o
Andrew, I’m reading this from a net cafe in Mumbai, and I am literally on the verge of tears. Only the public nature of the computer is keeping me dry.
I’m devastated that we are losing you from Parliament. I’m devastated that your seat will probably go to a major. And I’m most devastated that people, by and large, won’t realise what a contribution you made, and would have continued to make had you been re-elected.
You deserve one hell of a good sleep-in.
Nov 25th, 2007
Dan Creighton
Thank you for the great contribution you have made, Andrew. You will be sorely missed, and whilst the result must be disappointing to you, I hope the great esteem the wider community holds for your hard work and integrity will convince you to stand again. Thanks again.
Nov 25th, 2007
Will
Senator Bartlett,
We should acknolwedge your contributions as well, especially, for me, in taking the time via The Bartlett Diaries to inform and educate us. I am deeply disappointed that you have lost your seat, but I hope you do not resign from this podium. Keep speaking out; get some sleep and then come back to the ongoing debates. Bravo!
Nov 25th, 2007
Jen Harrison
While I’m overjoyed that John Howard’s government has been ejected and he’s very likely lost his own seat, this is a sad, sad day in Australian politics for the loss of you, Senator. And the loss of the Australian Democrats, keeping the bastards honest and helping make legislation that little bit fairer and better for all Australians.
The hard work you and your colleagues have undertaken will never be adequately acknowledged – but many of us are aware of how conscientious you’ve been and just how important is that work. One day soon the general public will begin to notice your absence and be sorry they didn’t appreciate you while you were there.
And hopefully this will mark the start of more good work …
Thanks again for everything you’ve done, especially – but not only – for asylum seekers and refugees. You’ve changed individual lives and brought crucial issues to the public’s attention. And we look forward to your continuing in this vital service for the next seven months.
xxx
Nov 25th, 2007
Sam Ward
Commisserations Andrew.
Nov 25th, 2007
Raymond Smith
Without you and the Democrats, it is hard to see how the Senate will be more than another battlefield for idelogical warfare. The thing that Democrats brought was a commitment to due process and the democracy which I just do not see from the other parties. It was that commitment that allowed our Senate to be such a strong independent house of review.
Unfortunately ideologues and cynical operators have been rewarded, hard work forgotten.
Thank you, Andrew, for all of your work in the Senate. There are at least two absentee votes coming from California for you and we would vote for you again in a second.
Raymond & Sarah
Nov 25th, 2007
CORAL
I think people were so keen to get rid of Howard that the smaller parties were largely ignored – except for Greens.
Nov 25th, 2007
Pete from Perth
Andrew, thanks for being a great Democrats Senator, and thanks for being so accessible through this blog too :-).
I’m sure tonight and the next few days will be one of very mixed feelings: regret that this road has ended but relief that Howard’s xenophobic and reactionary government is finally gone.
While I know your heart will always be with the Democrats, I do hope you consider running for The Greens some time down the track. You’re too good and experienced a federal campaigner for left-wing politics to lose entirely.
Nov 25th, 2007
Phil Young
I appreciate your efforts over many years Andrew and hope that you can thrive and enjoy the remaining months in the Senate – and as you work out the next chapter in your story.
I extend my best wishes to your family and hope you can enjoy a well deserved rest.
Nov 25th, 2007
Iain Hall
I hope that your losing your seat will not mean the end of your Blogging Andrew.
Cheers
Nov 25th, 2007
ben
Andrew, we all owe you a huge debt of gratitude for your hard work, your tireless commitment to issues of justice and integrity in the Senate, and the openness of your communication here at the Bartlett Diaries.
I am really sorry that you will not retain your Senate seat, and I wish you all the best.
Ben
Nov 25th, 2007
Sinclair Davidson
Commiserations.
Nov 25th, 2007
spog
Your loss is our loss.
Nov 25th, 2007
RodF
In all a predictable result for a party that completely lost it’s way from it’s beginnings.
There is a place on the political spectrum for a “small L” liberal political party to occupy just like Don Chipp intended. The left wing is pretty congested though with parties of higher recognition, hence the demise of the Democrats.
Nov 25th, 2007
Megan
You’ve worked hard for this state (and country).
Please keep blogging and appearing on 4ZzZ!
The outlets for views and values such as yours are few and far between in Queensland (especially Brisbane).
Thank you for all you did.
Nov 25th, 2007
Anthony David
Thank you for your thoughts Andrew, with the imminent passing of the Democrats from Federal parliamentary representation. State senators do not end their term until later next year. I look forward to your continued contribution to the parliament and whatever consequent contribution you will make to our society.
Thank you Andrew for your principled actions in your terms as senator along with those of your colleagues. Many Australians have benefited from these actions and the parliament will be diminished by their absence.
Nov 25th, 2007
Pete
Andrew,
Thank you for being a great Senator. You are easily the most approachable of every politician and the work you have done the last 10 years is simply amazing. I must admit I’m very very disappointed in the Queensland people and disappointed in myself for not campaigning harder.
But now is the time for the Australian Democrats to be re-born and regain their status as a viable third party. By 30 June next year my hope is that the Democrats will already be campaigning for the next federal election.
Nov 25th, 2007
Aron
Dear Andrew, Never have I been prouder to be a Democrat than yesterday – the wonderful effort this little party has put in this time has been tremendous, and I am so proud of the Democrats, and you.
There’s no disguising it’s a shocking outcome to go backwards after all the effort. A special mention goes to Morgan’s appalling senate polls, which proved themselves yet again to be nothing but a cruel joke, frankly, and concealed the degree to which the people had turned against the party with such determination.
I hope you have a well deserved rest. Good luck, Senator! I hope that all the great Democrat members and candidates find a fitting, satisfying and rewarding path for their wonderful talents and energies in the future.
Nov 25th, 2007
Darlene
It’s disappointing to no longer have that centrist force who are willing to compromise.
I was one of the 2 people in Vic who put the Dems 1.
Sad, but inevitable.
Nov 25th, 2007
Darlene
In the Senate I mean.
Nov 25th, 2007
Jiao
Andrew, I’m so sorry to see you go!
I am a refugee myself, though you have not done anything for me personally, I greatly appreciate your efforts in visiting all of the detention centres around the country. I also admire your support for the human rights in China, in your voicing up to stop the organ harvesting from Falun Gong practitioners in China.
Not a citizen yet, so I could not vote.
John Howard ignored the human rights violations in China for the sake of trade; Kevin Rudd will get closer to Chinese government for obvious reasons. I fled from China, and I do not want to have to flee again to the next country.
Andrew, I weep for our loss. (and I also cheer the possible victory of the Greens)
Maybe now it is the time for the Democrats and the Greens to merge.
I don’t know what to say about you planning to join a big party. The ideologies between Democrats and either of the big parties are so vast, how can you still retain your integrity if you become one of them?
Andrew, however, it is your call; I wish you 3 years of good rest, and come back again, Australia needs you!
Nov 25th, 2007
Julie
I’m so sorry to hear that you’ve lost your Senate position. I hope that we’ll continue to see you blogging and involved in politics somehow – you bring such experience and commitment to justice that it would be a shame to not have you speaking out in some way.
Nov 25th, 2007
Martin
Your work and commitment has been just amazing.
My thoughts are with you.
Nov 25th, 2007
Ralph Wessman
Very sorry to see you go Andrew.
Nov 25th, 2007
SRK
I’m disappointed in this result. Best wishes for the remainder of your senate tenure, and many thanks for the great contribution you’ve already made.
Nov 25th, 2007
geoff
Never liked you.
Glad you are out.
That being said, the fact you have a blog, censored though it is and restricted as we are… shows at least you have some redeeming features.
Unfortunately the Dems lost their way a long time ago and people like yourself and Kernot are the reasons.
Not to worry though… you could always do what I have suggested many times, and join the Greens… the party you should belong to. I can see you getting back in there and being an asset to them.
Nov 25th, 2007
Murray
I’m a member of Australians Against Capital Punishment and Schapelle Action Support Group, so I must extend a huge ‘Thank You’ to the Democrats.
You guys deserve much better for your accomplishments. You protect the individuals who become a victim of the times better than anybody out there.
Nov 25th, 2007
lauredhel
While I’m thrilled with the House results, I’m very sorry to see the Dems going down in the Senate. My sympathy to you and your colleagues. I do hope your blog continues, if you’re up for it; I always enjoy reading your thoughtful analyses.
Nov 25th, 2007
David Young
Andrew, thank you for showing us what it felt like for a politician to really represent us, and represent what Queensland and Australia can aspire to.
I guess people just wanted Howard gone this time, and the finer detail of keeping his successor honest has fallen from view for the moment.
I hope you’re doing okay, and I hope we can all keep working on a roadmap to a future where the majors can be kept in check. I hope the Greens don’t make too much of a mess of it, and wish them the best, but to me their ideas don’t seem broad or long-term enough (and I’d like to think FFP is just a passing fancy as well).
Above all, thank you. I really enjoy the blog and the videos, and your openness with the people is impressive and inspiring.
Nov 25th, 2007
Karen D.
Andrew
Sorry to see you go. Your blog was one thing that kept me believing there were still honest politicians around who actually cared about what they were doing.
Keep up the blogging, and keep up the politics. May you get in again next time.
All the best for your non-political future, anyway.
Nov 25th, 2007
pinback
Sorry to see it looks like you’ve lost your Senate seat, Andrew. While I could not in good conscience vote Democrat above the line (you can blame the Dems support of the GST & other issues for that), you personally were #1 below. Your candour, efforts to illustrate and explain the too-often complicated & Machiavellian political process, and an obvious personal commitment to openness, truth, and honesty in government – all in evidence throughout this blog – have served you, our state, and our country well.
I wish you all the best for whichever path you may choose in your future. And I hope that until that time you can continue to serve with the pride and personal contentment that comes from an honest job well done.
Nov 25th, 2007
Ros Kidd
Dear Andrew,
This is a terrible loss of the only politician I would ever accord the assumed title of ‘Honourable’.
In my field – seeking justice for Aboriginal people for wages missing or stolen under government control – your input has been tireless, generous and immensely valuable. Without you there would have been no Senate Inquiry into Stolen Wages to force governments to admit to their callous exploitation of Aboriginal workers and the millions of dollars of Aboriginal earnings lost on their watch. And this is just one of the many campaigns to benefit from your involvement.
Without exception, people I meet on Aboriginal communities speak highly of your willingness to listen and to follow up on their concerns.
The Senate and the Australian public have lost a fine advocate and a good-hearted man.
I wish you the very best in your next career.
Nov 25th, 2007
RodF
Andrew,
After a decade in office could you please list for us your Top 5 achievements?
Nov 25th, 2007
Peter
Hi Andrew,
We are sorry to lose you from the Senate.
Re the Greens – I had the impression that your political philosophy was rational and pragmatic; the Greens are the polar opposite and I would be very surprised and disappointed if you should join them.
I fear that our politics are sinking in a sea of dogma and greed.
Nov 25th, 2007
Alison McDermott
Dear Andrew: sorry you lost your seat; best wishes for the future!
Nov 25th, 2007
John Tracey
Oh well.
This is no excuse to put the weight back on.
Maybe you can be more effective in the real world anyway.
Nov 25th, 2007
philip travers
Really hurt by your loss Andrew..but your blog is where I have found out..you pay twice..the ABC needs a good kick up the backside,if ,any directorships come up there,and nothing else is worthy..feel free to kick em from above.Locked into only radio the last few days, the miserable bastards see themselves as election winners.May their gloat diminishes quickly,and may the loss of you from the Senate ,as it does for me,seem like a death in the family…the Greens will cop my bile whenever I have a chance to spleen..this was a good site for that…sorry I havent met you personally..and well I will forget about the promised underpants because it isnt a good second prize.This computer use of mine now has to find another useful purpose.Good Luck for your future.Stay true to yourself Andrew.
Nov 25th, 2007
Lynette2
Very sorry to see this result Andrew, for you and for us citizenry.
Nov 25th, 2007
Ronnie B
For me the greatest disappointment of the election is not having you return to the senate. It is a disappointment that is shared by many of my friends and family.
Thank you for all you have done.
Nov 25th, 2007
Mark
Commiserations on losing your seat. You and Natasha have both made an excellent contribution to the parliament, which is why I hope to see both of you re entering it as Greens Senators in the future.
Nov 25th, 2007
philip travers
Just looked up DavidIcke.com,and further being appalled,the U.S.A is moving fuel to the war areas.No time to blink or cry about what this means…Iran the pretend enemy to off load some useby date weapons and reduce the young population in Iran,the same population that wants to be like the Americans.Not may Greens appreciate Icke,but shit,if the man is right..he is right.Lord Have Mercy…and Rudd has already crawled up the arse of the U.S.A this weekend..we are all in a hurry arent we to decide that Iran is the enemy?.After all have we heard a pipsqueak out of Rudd that suggests that he is up with a very large section of the American populace that just dont accept their government anymore or the cheats of the same as U.S.A. Democrats..and it looks like their naval military havent got the intelligence too notice their missions are simply not needed..and be humans and reverse direction…cowardly bastards..Rudd has agreed with the moron Bush..and he needn’t of had.No irregularities at play about your downfall Senator? And,if David is right..if you have a chance in speech soon..frighten the Rudd into being Australian .A angry, hurt loud , finger pointing sense of outrage is the only truth the U.S.A. must know.
Nov 25th, 2007
Andrew Elder
I’m so sorry that the voters of Queensland haven’t returnmed you this time, and hope they’ll have the chance to correct their mistake. Thank you for your hard work and dedication over so many years.
Nov 25th, 2007
Bard
Good luck for the future, Andrew.
Nov 25th, 2007
Stephanie
Andrew, I keep hoping they find a box that slipped down behind a cupboard in some campaign booth, with a whole heap of first preference votes to you. But failing that, I wish you all the best once you decide on your next course in life. You are much loved and will be much missed.
Nov 25th, 2007
Jacques Chester
It’s a bloody crying shame. The Democrats were an important voice for reason in the Senate. I did not agree with a lot of policies but I agreed with the commitment to honest and rational process which the Democrats represented.
I just hope there’s a double dissolution and the people of Queensland bring you back.
Nov 25th, 2007
Sean FitzGerald
Sorry to see you go Andrew. Best luck for the future.
Nov 25th, 2007
Jiao
I forgot to tell you Andrew.
The Democrats was the conscience in the Senate, it hurts, and I grieve for the defeat.
Nov 25th, 2007
Cameron Reilly
Andrew, a sorry day for Australian politics. All the best with your future. More drumming in store I think.
Nov 25th, 2007
tim
Andrew, I want to thank you for what you achieved in the Senate and for your blogging which has been extremely influential and personally inspirational. I second the calls here for you to please continue with the blog, whatever path your future holds.
Nov 25th, 2007
Justin Campbell
Andrew so sorry to see you go. I hope you continue to stay involved in the party and help us rebuild.
Thank you for all your hard work representing our great state.
Nov 25th, 2007
Pete from Perth
RodF@16: “There is a place on the political spectrum for a “small L” liberal political party to occupy just like Don Chipp intended. The left wing is pretty congested though with parties of higher recognition, hence the demise of the Democrats.”
The Greens took the left-wing niche The Democrats once had and are polling well and now have seats.
Meg Lees and her Australian Progressive Alliance failed dismally. Get over it.
Nov 25th, 2007
Martin Pluss
Hi Andrew.
I was really pleased to meet you in the BlogTalk Downunder Conference in 2005 and I have followed your blog ever since.
I guess with political blogging you are ahead of your time – I am sorry it did not translate into more votes.
All the best for the future.
Martin
Nov 25th, 2007
Darren Lewin-Hill
I admit I didn’t vote Democrats in the Senate for Victoria, but I am nevertheless saddened at the Senate’s loss of yourself and Lyn Allison, as well as Natasha Stott-Despoja and Andrew Murray through retirement. I was swayed by the Morgan Victorian Senate poll and saw DiNatale sitting on 10.5% with a real chance, but the Dems with 3.5%. Note that together that’s pretty much a quota outright, and I wonder what kind of coordination might avoid such splitting of the vote for viable Senate alternatives to the major parties.
Finally, I have valued your commitment to communicating with your constituency and a broader politically engaged audience. I wish you all the best and hope the Dems can score some final runs in the Senate before next July.
Nov 25th, 2007
shishkin
Hey Senator! do you want to have a drum sometime?? i wouldn’t mind pumping up the ol’ eugene and the egg balloon again and seeing if it floats – it could be like the psychedelic face of the post-punk/emo interface (if one was hell bent on nomenclature pigeon holeing)
Nov 25th, 2007
david tiley
I am sure you will find many other ways of being constructive and valuable to the rest of us. I suspect you will find life outside politics will be refreshing and joyous. Canberra is a bearpit, after all.
But still, this result is a bugger and I too am really sorry it happened.
At least, unlike some other people who have been removed from Parliament this weekend, you can be sure it has nothing to do with either you or your policies and positions. It is just politics.
Good luck and enjoy the last six months of your term in the Senate.
Nov 25th, 2007
William Luu
Andrew, i’m disappointed that you weren’t re-elected. Nonetheless, it is the hand that life has dealt to you for this round. I do hope that you keep this blog going, as it’s been a really interesting insight into the work you do. Especially for someone who only takes a passing interest in anything politics related in the general media. So on that, I’d like to thank you Andrew.
Goodluck for the future on whatever you do decide on, we’ll all be watching/reading through this blog!
Nov 25th, 2007
Still stick with a bloody Lib in Wannon
It’s a great tragedy that the Democrats’ diligent work in scrutinising legislation has gone unrecognised and unrewarded. This is the unsexy nuts and bolts of governing and it takes a really old fashioned and noble commitment to public service to get down amongst the dirty details of how legislation will function and fix it. This was always the Democrats’ strongest virtue and Australia has thousands of thoughtful and necessary changes to laws that, may they rest in peace, the Libs foisted on us unasked for 11 bloody years. As if the Greens are going to fulfil that function. Yeah right. Vale Andrew, look back proudly on your party’s record of achievement.
Nov 25th, 2007
Davo
Andrew, am not good with words at the best of times .. something will be missing from my fundamental soul if the Australian Democrats disappear forever from the Australian political landscape.
We spend a lot of money saving endangered Chinese Panda bears .. it’s a a bit galling to see the Dems disappear .. heh.
Nov 25th, 2007
Paul H
Senator Andrew Bartlett,
You can take great comfort in the contribution you and all past Democrat Senators have made over the last thirty years. No one can take that away from you personally or the Democrats.
I feel sure you will continue to make a contribution to the welfare of others in some form or other, simply because you can’t help yourself.
Bravo! I look forward to the next chapter.
Nov 25th, 2007
Brian Bahnisch
I’d prefer a situation where we didn’t have party politics in the Senate as a house of review. I’ve voted for the Dems in the Senate since the days of Michael Macklin. There’s a couple more coming your way as below the line votes, but unfortunately it won’t be enough.
We need reps with a social justice focus who can act out of conscience in the senate. You’ve done more than well.
My best wishes and I hope too that you won’t disappear from view.
Nov 25th, 2007
Jim
Well, you had my vote, Andrew, and that of anyone I managed to convince. I saw a distinction between the Dems and Greens, not so much in their policies but in terms of a willingness to make a constructive contribution to the legislative and parliamentary processes. Its a great shame that the electorate seems to have either not agreed or, more likely, not noticed.
The transparency, accountability and responsiveness offered by this blog will be sorely missed, but with a little luck it will serve as an example to other parliamentarians. I believe it will, and whether or not you choose to continue in politics, in that sense at least you should be very proud of having made a real and lasting contribution to the way politics is conducted in this country.
Nov 26th, 2007
Per Ahlberg
Dear Andrew,
I’m very sorry indeed to see that you were not reelected. Your tireless support for the conservation of the Queensland lungfish has meant a great deal to me and other members of the campaign team. Good luck for the future! Let me know if I can ever do anything to help you.
Best wishes,
Per Ahlberg
Uppsala University
Sweden
Nov 26th, 2007
mick
Sorry Andrew, you got my vote so you can count on one more postal but I guess that won’t help much.
Thankyou for all your years of service.
Nov 26th, 2007
shishkin
And BTW Andrew, i think it goes without saying, that you can’t take the lose of your Senate position personally – in my opinion, there seemed to be a constant theme developing within the media over the past few years about the irrelevance of the Democrats as a party (and now with the fear of climate change on the public agenda you had to expect a great flow of Democrat votes to go to the Greens) – i’m sure that if you were inclined to return for further tours of duty that you’d stand a great chance as an independent – but really what the body and mind needs in low-down times like these, is a stompin poundin good work out on the drums – hope you’ve still got your kit – take it easy for a while maybe – there are many forms of public service – many ways to do good – eugene
Nov 26th, 2007
Robert Merkel
As well as the post on LP, I’d like to offer my personal commiserations on the election result.
I think the Democrats would have served an excellent role in the Senate this time around; but sadly it’s not to be.
As mentioned, a lot of us are hoping you don’t disappear from view entirely after June 30th, but whatever you choose to do, I wish you well. Do you think the “corporate world” would choose to throw large amounts of cash at ex-Senators in small parties? :)
Nov 26th, 2007
Helen
Please add my regrets to those already expressed by so many. My wish is to see you either stay in government as an independent or with the Greens, or to continue as a writer and commentator, much needed given the slew of rightwing commenters (I hardly think they’ll miss much of a beat even with this election result).
Nov 26th, 2007
adam
thanks for everything andrew. it was all worth it. don’t look back in regret but in well-earned pride. best wishes with whatever challenge now awaits your undoubted talents – and that area of human activity that you will choose is truly fortunate today to have you.
Nov 26th, 2007
JULIEN
Sorry to see you go if you do’nt mind me asking what plans have you for the future?
Nov 26th, 2007
pondie84
Andrew… commiserations on a fine career. I think your colleague Andrew Murray put it best when he stated that there are politicians and there are parliamentarians. I’d like to think of you as a parilamentarian and an example for all future senators.
Personally, this was the first election for me where I voted for the Democrats. Even though I knew the end was there for the Democrats I wouldn’t let the media pronouncements of the end of the Democrat deter me from a vote.
Best of luck for the future and I’m sure you’ll make the most of your remaining time in Parliament.
Nov 26th, 2007
Dexter
Andrew,
Commisserations – you will be a loss to the Senate. I have particularly enjoyed your frank insights into the Senate process and the workings of your role.
Any thoughts on standing again should there be a double dissolution (perhaps not that far away)?
Nov 26th, 2007
Adam McBeth
For a career that achieved more than any other parliamentarian in Australia’s history in terms of solid outcomes for humanitarian and environmental causes, thank you. We get the representatives we deserve, and clearly we don’t deserve you.
Nov 26th, 2007
David Couper
Andrew,
As a benign competitor but also like-minded individual in the Senate Election, I must say I am horrified that so many have deserted you when you have been by far the best and most open communicator of any politician this nation has ever seen, and I thus pass on my commiserations to you. As we have discussed recently, Morgan Poll has a lot to answer for (it’s always been a pile of crap), but certainly so do the people of Queensland.
I believe you are the most intelligent and rational Senator Australia has ever had. You’ve got a few people suggesting you should join the Greens, and other people wondering about the future of the Democrats. I have come full circle and will make the statement I made months ago – you must run as an Independent as soon as the next opportunity arises. The Democrat methodology is supposed to be about proper representation and good legislation, and I believe that you will not only keep your hardcore supporters, but also find it easier to attract new and “disappeared” supporters, if you are unencumbered by a party name.
I wish you all the best for the next 7 months, and heck, KRudd could suffer the disaster to beat all disasters, and be blocked twice before July, thus leading to the most unusual double dissolution election in Australian history. You would not be hurt at all by such a prospect; it would be how you managed a campaign around the concept that is crucial.
Don’t stop blogging!
David Alan Couper
Group N
Nov 26th, 2007
Tanya
Australia is a better place for your intelligent and compassionate dedication in the Senate. Thank you for all you have given. We can only hope that you will continue your excellent work in other forums … and that, prior to next to July, you’ll help keep the new lot of bastards honest.
Nov 26th, 2007
Chien
You have been one amazing senator Andrew and we can only hope you will one day again be standing up for us against the bullies in the schoolyard who think they know what we want.
Thanks again and please don’t give up. We’re right behind you. :)
Nov 26th, 2007
Reddy
Thank you Andrew for your dedication in trying to get the Democrats message out in this campaign – the Australian Parliament will be the poorer in July without your presence.
In response to R.55 “I was swayed by the Morgan Victorian Senate poll and saw DiNatale sitting on 10.5% with a real chance, but the Dems with 3.5%. Note that together that’s pretty much a quota outright, and I wonder what kind of coordination might [have] avoid[ed] such splitting of the vote for viable Senate alternatives to the major parties.”
A pity the A.Greens did not take advice (it was given by me and many others) in the 90’s that their entry would split the environment/progressive vote (represented by 10 Senators from 1999 and 2002; 8 in 2005 and 5 in 2008.) The AGs have not helped in increasing the progressive representation in the Senate.
This does not surprise me as when the ALP changed legislation to increase the number of Senators for each state from 10 to 12 many believed it was designed to rid the Senate of the minor parties.
PR is designed to operate with an odd number of quotas (changed from 5 to 6 for half Senate elections).
In 2007 it looks like six jurisdictions will return the same number of ALP & Coalition Senators (ie 18 each). The seats the Greens won in Tas & WA cancels out the numbers of ALP/Coal. Will Xenophon cancel out the SA Green seat?
Nov 26th, 2007
Nikki
Andrew, I just want to add my voice to the many. Two years ago you made the time to conduct a phone interview about the Migration Act with me (a very nervous, stuttering undergraduate from Victoria). I was truly inspired by your combination of honesty, compassion and pragmatism, and have followed your political input closely since then. You are the only politician who I have been able to rely on to be working tirelessly and selflessly behind the scenes on all of the issues close to my heart.
After speaking to you on the phone, I became a member of the Democrats and was proud to be out there on Saturday handing out HTVs for the only political party which truly inspires faith and loyalty in me.
I take comfort in the knowledge that you and Lyn may, come July, finally have time to rest and relax. All the best and thankyou.
Nov 26th, 2007
Cathy
What an immeasurable tragedy. I’ll always remember the Senate debate over the ban on gay marriage, with the words of sanity echoing around a near empty house.
Keep writing, Andrew. Your intelligence and rationality are inspiring.
Nov 26th, 2007
coconaut
Allow me to add my voice to the chorus of posters who think you have been an excellent Senator.
Nov 26th, 2007
Bannerman
My personal best wishes to you in your future, Andrew, whatever direction you choose to take. Both Queensland and the Senatorial process is poorer for your loss
Nov 26th, 2007
Emmy Pfister
Dear Senator Andrew,
It was most disappointing to hear you have lost the Senate seat; I wish to acknowledge the enormous contribution you have made, and your courage to stand up for the values of human rights and social justice. We need people like yourself with conscience, integrity and honesty in the Parliament. Sadly to say there are so few around these days. Your loss is a loss to all Australians and especially Queensland State.
Thanks so much for your support and being so accessible over all these years. You will always be remembered and recorded in the Chinese history, one of those few courageous Australian politicians who stood by the Chinese people, not the totalitarian regime.
Thank you so much Andrew for all your hard work and representing our voice in the Senate, I hope you will continue to participate in ending the persecution of Falun Gong and seeing human rights established in China.
My best wishes to you and your family, I hope this is not the end, but a beginning of an even brighter chapter.
With genuine appreciation and gratitude,
Emmy
Nov 26th, 2007
Mickey Conaty
Of the people who have recently left public life, I won’t miss John Howard at all. I am indeed very pleased that he departs with the electorate’s collective boot on his bum.
I’ll miss Liz Ellis desperately. The Australian netball side and the Sydney Swifts just won’t be the same without her.
Andrew Bartlett you fall somewhere in-between but well and truly on the Liz Ellis side of the dial. You have represented the people of Queensland with integrity. The senate, and our electoral arrangement more broadly, can ill afford to lose a person of your intelligence and humanity.
Good luck with whatever comes next.
Nov 26th, 2007
Matthew Fowler
What I find curious is that despite 30 years of clear ongoing need, the Australian Democrats are being seen as dying or dead by so many. What are the barriers to joining the Dems? In Kingston we have at least 3 new members and I’m focussing on developing a SA Division membership drive for 2010 – bring back the Australian Democrats – one member at a time! We all can be the change we are looking for.
One key area to focus on is communicating with the community raising awareness and promoting the benefits of the Australian Democrats over any other minor party. It seems to me that we have yet to really effectively do so in this democracy, something the Dems could engage with the AEC to continue helping facilitate.
2007 Kingston Candidate
Nov 26th, 2007
togret
Sorry to see you have not made it this time. Wishing you well in whatever area you go to next, and I’m sure you’ll do it with courage and integrity.
Nov 26th, 2007
Andrew
A bit early I know, but do you have any intentions of running as an indie, or for any other party? I’m all those who read your blog (including, I’m sure, many of your political colleagues/opponents) will miss you terribly. This post is the internet at its finest, a real example of true democracy.
Nov 26th, 2007
Jacinta Arnold
Thank you for all of your hard work and intelligent thoughts and good deeds. I wish you the best in whatever you chose to do with your life. Best wishes.
Nov 26th, 2007
James Farrell
Commiserations, Andrew. Your voice will be missed. You were quite right to criticise the MSM for ignoring you and focusing on the bus circus. Due to your influence, I voted Democrat for the Senate in NSW.
Please write a post clarifying your attitude to the Greens.
Nov 26th, 2007
margo kingston
Andrew, I’m bitter sweet tonight, too. I campaigned for Kerrie Tucker, the Greens ACT Senate candidate. She lost too. She was the best Andrew, as you were the best in Qld. I voted for you, mate. However, we’re all part of the process. We cared, we tried, and we’re the winners, for that reason. Andrew, we’ve got a change of govt, so we can hope again. Come back if you feel you want to. If you feel you’ve done your share, move on. You’re a great Australian, Andrew. Know it.
Nov 26th, 2007
Adam Burke
Commiserations Andrew. It’s a damn shame to the parliament without the Democrats.
Nov 26th, 2007
Sam Clifford
A parliament without Democrats is like a mug with no beer (with apologies to Dickens).
Senator Bartlett, I hope your blog continues as a commentary on Australian politics; it’s been a great read and the Australian blogosphere will be all the poorer if it’s lost to the sands of time.
Nov 27th, 2007
dr victor kacala
cheers.
Nov 27th, 2007
Paul Kavanagh
Andrew, you’re a rare person as you feel injustice profoundly and have the ability and motivation to fight it.
Now an injustice has been done to you, be satisfied knowing you’ve worked tirelessly and to the best of your ability for a better world, and in so doing, have helped many people. I’ve always been proud to be a member of your Party.
Perhaps we’re entering an era in politics where the humanity of the Democrats becomes standard practice in the other Parties. You and the other Democrats have kept fairness, tolerance, honesty and compassion alive.
Nov 27th, 2007
John Surname
A black day indeed. Don’t join the Greens, you have too much dignity.
Nov 27th, 2007
Zen
Andrew,
You are definitely the most communicative, intelligent and a great person as well as a great politician.
You have been working against all odds possible, plus the establishment and great network (and money) behind the others.
Australia has become a very americanised type of arrogant and a very sad country where the individual case merit and integrity does not apply any more. Big business does.
Having said that, I cannot help thinking that quite a factor in the Democrats misfortune was a female contingent of the party. Jenine Hines, the idiot, Natasha Stott Despoja with her crazy support for the uni fees, a debile Cheryl Kernot and the utter cretin Meg Lees have totally betrayed the left wing principles of the Democrats. They had such a huge support and they squandered it. Once they decided to abandon the Senate or to go to bed with either conservative Labor (sic) or verbally with the ‘Old rotten Mushroom’ they spelt the fate of the Party. Person like you would need a huge and costly campaign to make people forget.
I only hope that you will continue with political career if it is possible. The community needs you.
Nov 27th, 2007
Max
Will miss seeing you over on Palm Island. You truly looked out for the little Queenslanders.
I’ll miss your insight and comments.
Max
Nov 29th, 2007
Stuart Fenech
Dear Andrew,
Saddened to see the polling day go as badly as it did for yourself and the Democrats.
Over the last couple of years now, I have enjoyed your work as the most accessible Senator in Queensland. Your blog has been a regular highlight, always well thought out and insightful.
Unfortunately, the person that many of us here and in the political loop came to appreciate and value was not broadly recognised by the people of Queensland. It is Queensland’s loss.
I wish you well for the future, and hope to still see you around.
Regards
Nov 30th, 2007
Stace
Hope you realize how many supporters you really do have.
Dec 7th, 2007
Paul
I am absolutely delighted that the left wing Andrew Bartlett will no longer burden society with his out of touch political philosophies. The Democrats are a joke and seen as out of touch lefties who have been punished by the electorate. May they forever lie in ashes.
Dec 10th, 2007