James Christmas isn’t backing away from his disagreement with Winston Peters.

The ACT candidate joins Shubz to explain why he challenged Winston’s language on abortion, respond to accusations that he’s “woke” and discuss where personal freedom fits within his politics. We also get into the Tāmaki campaign, strategic voting and the election ahead.

Then the conversation gets deeply personal.

Conservative Party leader Helen Houghton opens up about her experience of sexual abuse and why she decided to speak publicly. She and Shubz talk as survivors about silence, shame, trauma and why protecting children means having conversations people would rather avoid.

Helen also gives her views on abortion, questions whether Winston’s comments are political theatre and outlines her party’s proposals on child protection and sentencing.

Content note: This episode includes personal accounts and discussion of child sexual abuse.

CHAPTERS

0:00 Introduction and politics

5:17 James Christmas interview

9:25 Abortion policy debate

13:30 Political alignment and identity

17:07 Election strategy and debate

21:27 Strategic voting and performance

24:11 Electoral dynamics

28:36 Political philosophy and wrap-up

32:37 Advocacy and Conservative Party

37:12 Audience interaction and updates

44:52 Helen Houghton — abortion, politics and speaking publicly

50:40 Child protection, survivors and trauma

1:14:22 Lighthearted wrap-up

Shubz Says So | Episode 122

Subscribe, share it with the whānau and have your say in the comments.

For all inquiries: producer@shubzsayso.com