Election 2026: It’s extraordinary National might knife a sitting PM, given the polls – Liam Hehir

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon's decision regarding a potential MMP referendum has reportedly set tongues wagging within the National Party's caucus. Liam Hehir, a lawyer and National Party member, suggests this internal discussion is significant, especially given the current political climate.

Hehir, writing in an opinion piece, posits that the National Party might be contemplating a move as drastic as replacing a sitting prime minister. This is considered extraordinary, particularly when viewed against the backdrop of current polling data, which might otherwise suggest stability for the incumbent leader.

The author, who is based in Palmerston North and has a history as a National Party activist, shared his perspective. He notes that the phones are reportedly buzzing within the National caucus, indicating a level of internal debate or concern surrounding Luxon's leadership or specific policy decisions, such as the referendum.

This opinion piece, originally published on Hehir's Substack, offers an insider's view on the potential dynamics within the National Party. It highlights the possibility of internal party maneuvers that could challenge the status quo, even when external indicators like polls might suggest otherwise.