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“This is a cabinet and an executive that is based on merit and that also happens to be incredibly diverse and I am proud of that,” said Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern.
There is one measure of diversity that is yet to be met: even though women make up more than half the population, they only make up 40 percent of the cabinet, even though the new faces are predominantly female.
The women’s group includes a very excited new Minister for Women: Jan Tinetti, who was surprised to receive the call.
“I think for the first time in my life I was speechless,” he said.
Meka Whaitiri, who was fired last term, is happy to receive the callback.
“I am honored to receive a callback and to be a part of this incredible team, but I have no illusions about the enormous scrutiny,” she said.
The first day of work is always overwhelming.
“Don’t ask me tough questions, it’s my first day on the job,” joked Kiri Allan, who is the new conservation minister and part of the cabinet. “It actually felt like an incredible whirlwind.”
New Labor MPs don’t expect big jobs.
“I am only a third ex right now, my first caucus meeting,” said Northcote’s new Labor MP Shanan Halbert.
But among the class of 2020 is a standout star, Dr. Ayesha Verrall, who hasn’t even been officially sworn in as a deputy. She has already fired straight into the cabinet.
“I tried not to expect anything more than to be prepared for anything,” he said.
Kieran McAnulty should prepare to keep his hands full: Although he failed to make the cabinet cut, he will be the whip boss, contesting 64 Labor MPs.
The former bookmaker has landed his first job: the Melbourne Cup Caucus competition.
