I have decided that Julia Gillard has all that it takes to be an iconic leader. I really felt for her when that twat of a radio jockey made those cruel comments about her after the death of her dear father. She conducted herself with dignity throughout those difficult days and the only loser will be he who uttered such insensitive words.
I admire Julia for many other reasons; namely her ability to hold her Government together despite challenges that would have ‘floored’ a lesser person. She is the queen of the parlour for sure. One cannot help but make comparisons between her and our ex-PM, Helen Clark. I often wonder how the two would have interacted, both being ‘strong minded’ individuals.
I also compare Julia to our PM, Key. The differences are like the Red Sea without a Moses to create a bridge. They are very different people and that in itself is not such a bad thing; it is in how they inspire the direction of their respective nations. It is how they create a vision and then act on it for their countries. Julia wins hands down on both fronts.
I think the real differences can be summed up in how Gillard reaches out in order to connect with Australia. Take for instance the special Peoples’ meetings she is holding at the moment, the latest being in Launceston in Tasmania. I had the privilege to watch her last night on TV, live. Most of her Cabinet Ministers were present and Julia took questions from the floor. There is no doubt that she connected with those present and when she needed support for a particular question, she called on her Ministers to answer. I just cannot summon up a scenario where Key should act in such a knowledgeable and connective manner.
I have been impressed with the ‘other’ side of Julia lately. She is not the hard ice queen that the media has loved to portray. The human side has finally come to the fore. Last night was yet one more example. Julia responded with dignity to the elderly man who reassured her about how most people saw her and the special place she holds her father in her heart. We saw a genuine and warm lady.
For those Australians who do not see things in quite the same way I have presented, I say--- that’s OK--- We shall swap leaders!
