Jacinda Ardern Reflects on Popularity Decline During UK Tour

Former Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern addressed the decline in her public approval ratings during an appearance on The Graham Norton Show in the United Kingdom. The episode, which aired on Saturday morning (NZT), is part of her media tour promoting her new documentary, Prime Minister. Ardern discussed her experiences leading up to her resignation from politics in January 2023.

During the show, host Graham Norton posed a direct question regarding her popularity: “What went wrong? What was the tipping point?” In her response, Ardern highlighted the shifting global political climate, characterized by rising aggression and hostility towards leaders. She noted, “I don’t think it is just any one leader who has experienced that shift. It has shifted, and amongst all of that, I do think we’re at a moment in time.”

Ardern emphasized the importance of maintaining hope for the political landscape, stating, “In response to that moment in time, my plea is for people to not give up on the prospect that politics can be better. Expect decency in politics, expect kindness in your politics. I do think we will come back to that.”

The episode also featured Kate Winslet, who praised Ardern for her resilience during a challenging period in her life. Winslet commended Ardern for managing her pregnancy while navigating coalition talks with New Zealand First following the 2017 election. Ardern became Prime Minister just a week later after securing an agreement with Winston Peters to form a government with Labour. Winslet expressed her admiration, saying, “Oh my god, she is so amazing.”

While the episode has already been broadcast internationally, it has yet to air in New Zealand and will be available on the TVNZ app starting December 12.

In a separate interview on BBC Radio 4 last week, Ardern discussed keeping her pregnancy private for 20 weeks while experiencing severe morning sickness. She explained her decision was motivated by a desire to demonstrate that it is possible to be both a dedicated leader and a present mother. “I am not going to lie, those first 20 weeks were hard, but they were also doable,” she remarked.

Ardern’s insights into her popularity decline and personal challenges reflect broader themes in contemporary politics, where public sentiment can be volatile and deeply affected by global events. Her candid reflections during this media tour provide a glimpse into the complexities faced by political leaders today, as they balance personal and professional responsibilities in the public eye.