Trumps America, RMA Reform (Again) and Balancing Voter Rights and Responsibility

Hosted by Phil Goff and Chris Finlayson with Sam Collins, Cross Party Lines unpacks the week in New Zealand and global politics so you don’t have too. Genuine cross-party debate — not point-scoring.

This week’s episode is recorded in the shadow of tragedy, sharing our condolences to those impacted by the tragic events in Bondi.

In Episode 7:

* America and the rule of law — Trump’s new National Security Strategy, intrusive ESTA visa proposals and military actions in the Caribbean raise serious questions about whether the US is abandoning the rules-based international order.

* RMA reform, again — The government unveils its replacement for the Resource Management Act. Is this genuine progress, recycled policy or a rare moment of near-bipartisanship — and real concern about unintended consequences.

* Electoral law changes under urgency — The move to end same-day enrolment sparks a sharp debate about disenfranchisement, democratic fragility and whether efficiency is ever a good reason to make voting harder. Should New Zealand go further — even to compulsory voting?

Cross Party Lines exists to lift political literacy and create space for thoughtful, good-faith discussion in an increasingly polarised world.

New episodes every Tuesday. If you value calmer politics, follow the podcast and share it with someone who might too.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit crosspartylines.substack.com