Bartlett rules
Having enjoyed hearing talk of President Bartlet, courtesy of the wonderful West Wing television series, I will now get to hear of Premier Bartlett through our news bulletins, following yesterday’s change at the top of the Tasmanian government, with David Bartlett replacing former Premier Paul Lennon.
From what I’ve seen of Tasmanian politics from afar, I certainly hope he’s an improvement, but I don’t seek to vouch for him one way or another. I’m not related (as far as I know). His words – both yesterday and also previously – seem to indicate support for changing the culture of politics and adopting a less blindly partisan approach. It is a very rapid rise to the top, as he’s only been in Parliament for four years. Although he had experience as ministerial advisor prior to that, he also has a work background in IT, which would be somewhat different to many of his colleagues.
I did notice a year or two ago that he seemed to be trying to use the internet to be more open and accessible about what he does, although his site didn’t seem to be updated overly often in more recent times. Perhaps once he became a Minister, the capacity to do these things in an authentic way became more difficult. I’ve been his Facebook friend for a little while too, but although that can give a bit of an insight into a person’s leanings and attitude, it isn’t really a major tool for open community engagement.
4 Comments, Comment or Ping
muzzmonster
Will all due respect, I still this President Josiah Bartlett wins hands down of the political Bartletts.
May 27th, 2008
philip travers
I think he needs elocution lessons from you Senator!
May 27th, 2008
LORIKEET
Yes, when I heard the television newsreader mention the name Bartlett, I quickly rushed out of the kitchen to take a better look.
When I realised they were talking about someone in Tasmania, I went back to my cooking.
Jun 16th, 2008
Naomi Cartledge
At present I’m reading a book called “Ambushed” about the 3 generations of the Bush family. The front page says, ‘Secrets of the Bush Family, The Stolen Presidency, 9/11 and 2004! It’s worth reading! I read “American Torture” a few weeks ago, about the US’s use of torture from after WW2 until the present day. Most enlightening and very frightening! I’ve always believed David Hicks & Mamdouh Habib’s assertions that they were tortured. In fact, this book commences with the experiences of Mamdouh Habib.
I loved West Wing, which confuses me as I’m no fan of the US, and certainly not George W. I understand that Martin Sheen’s own politics are pretty good too! He came out publicly against the invasion of Iraq, and other US policies too! The stories were so good, and the acting was excellent in my view! I’d like to buy the whole series!
Jun 17th, 2008