David Pocock says being a kingmaker comes with a 'steep learning curve'
The ACT senator and former Wallabies captain believes Labor has 'over-learnt' the lessons from its bruising 2019 defeat, and is too hesitant to act.
Less than three years into his political career, the hope that propelled David Pocock’s campaign is now tinged with frustration. The independent senator insists that while his optimism about change has grown, his belief in Labor’s ability to deliver it is evaporating.
“There was so much talk about a new way of doing politics and the climate wars being over," he says. "Then you realise that things change slowly."
“[There seem to be] things that you kick and scream about in opposition. Then when you get into the hot seat, you fend off the crossbench, which is trying to hold you to what you said.”
The former Wallaby captain upended federal politics in the nation’s capital in 2022, defeating conservative Liberal Zed Seselja for the ACT’s second Senate spot. The territory had never elected a senator from outside the major parties.
