Jacinda Ardern, who stepped down as New Zealand’s prime minister more than two years ago, is now embracing a new chapter in her life from her new home in Boston, where she serves as a fellow at Harvard University.
In the wake of significant events—such as a domestic terror attack, a volcanic eruption, and the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic—Ardern has taken time to reflect on her political career and personal journey.
Her upcoming memoir, “A Different Kind of Power,” set to be released on Tuesday, details her ascent to the highest office in New Zealand, highlighting both the challenges she faced and her reasons for her unexpected resignation.
The memoir follows the premiere of a documentary titled “Prime Minister,” which captures her experiences during her tenure and was showcased at the Sundance Film Festival.
In an interview with CBS’ “Sunday Morning,” Ardern made it clear that her days in politics are behind her.
When asked by correspondent Robert Costa if she might ever consider a return to politics in New Zealand, Ardern responded without hesitation: “No, I think if you make the decision to leave, then you’ve made the decision to leave.”
Costa pointed to historical figures like Winston Churchill, who returned to power after stepping down, suggesting the idea of never saying never.
Ardern, however, replied with a laugh, stating, “In this case, say never.”
She expressed confidence in her former colleagues, stating, “They’re wonderful. They’re doing a great job, and they don’t need me.”
Ardern has relished her time in the United States, finding joy in the opportunity to lead a more typical family life away from the pressures of political leadership.
Reflecting on her leadership style, Ardern emphasized the importance of empathy and kindness in politics, noting how these traits can also be viewed as strengths rather than weaknesses.
“That principle of kindness, it’s something we teach our kids, why shouldn’t we role model that in the way that we conduct ourselves in politics?” she remarked.
She continued, illustrating her belief that character traits previously seen as vulnerabilities, such as imposter syndrome and empathy, can be powerful assets in leadership.
Ardern identified herself as a “reluctant prime minister” in the documentary, admitting that she often felt the weight of her responsibilities heavily upon her shoulders, especially given the crises she managed during her premiership.
Throughout her five years in office, she stood for various critical issues including gun control, climate change action, child poverty reduction, increased minimum wage, enhanced parental leave, and mental health advocacy.
Despite receiving substantial support during her time in office, the cumulative pressures led to her surprising resignation at the beginning of 2023.
At the time, her approval ratings had dropped significantly, and the political landscape was becoming increasingly hostile, especially in light of protests over her COVID-19 mandates.
Ardern believed stepping down could potentially allow her achievements to stay intact amidst the tumultuous climate.
Reflecting in the documentary, she pondered whether she had subconsciously been planning to exit all along.
In her resignation announcement, she expressed a desire to devote more time to family and life outside political responsibilities.
Following her departure from office, Ardern married TV broadcaster Clarke Gayford and transitioned into her role at Harvard.
As she moves forward, Ardern aims to promote messages of compassion and optimism, themes that resonate in her memoir and documentary.
“Optimism is a courageous act,” she stated during her Sundance Film Festival appearance. “It’s not passive; you have to keep fighting for it… Please maintain the courage of optimism; we need it now more than ever.”
As she charts her path away from political life, Ardern seems committed to shaping a dialogue rooted in kindness and hope for the future.
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