Jacinda Ardern’s rude MP statement transcript sells for $100,000 in New Zealand

A signed transcript of New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern abusing an opposition leader fetched more than NZ$100,000 ($63,200).

Following a heated argument with ACT party leader David Seymour, microphones picked up the insulting remark.

Ms. Ardern eventually apologized for the statement before Mr. Seymour recommended they work together to generate money for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of New Zealand.

After the charity auction closed on Thursday, the Prime Minister congratulated everyone who bid. 

During a passionate parliamentary debate last week, Ms. Ardern took issue when Mr. Seymour, head of the right-wing libertarian ACT party, challenged her to give an example of her “making a mistake, apologizing for it properly, and mending it.”

Ms. Ardern defended her Labor government’s record before quietly mumbling, “Such an arrogant prick.”

Ms. Ardern defended her Labor government’s record before quietly mumbling, “Such an arrogant prick.”

However, the couple, generally political rivals, decided to turn the issue into something positive. Before it was fram and auction online, each sign a copy of a transcript of the official parliamentary record that included the comment.

The winner of the charity auction told local media that he would need to take out a loan to cover the NZ$100,100 (£52,200) winning offer.

Julian Shorten told 1News that he was please with his purchase and that “this is a turning point in New Zealand political history.”

“The interest was higher than anyone dreamed,” Mr. Seymour said in a statement.

“She agreed right instantly when I offered it,” he added. “I’m surprised by the kindness of bidders who are assisting jerks all over.”

“Can’t say I expected this,” Ms. Ardern commented on Facebook before thanking Mr. Seymour for “being a good sport.”

Ms. Ardern’s Labour Party won a huge victory in the country’s general election in 2020, and she has had strong approval ratings for most of her two terms in power.

Ms. Ardern is under increasing pressure as New Zealand prepares to have elections in late 2023. According to the most recent polls, her Labour Party is trailing the main opposition National Party.