The Politics of Covid

by Sam Head 

Over the last few months COVID-19 has run rampant across the globe. However the virus has impacted some countries more than others. America has been hit the hardest with around 11.3 million cases, which is about 20% of all cases world worldwide, while New Zealand has only experienced minor discomfort with 2,005 cases. Despite the difference in populations between both nations, it is clear to see that America has been affected more drastically. In this article I will discuss the impacts that the political leaders have had on the spread of the virus and to see what we can learn from each of them.

Leadership is defined as motivating a group of people towards a common goal. However many books written about the subject suggest that certain characteristics are required to become a good leader. Aspects such as self-confidence, good communication skills, integrity and honesty are all commonly mentioned. However endeavouring to embody all of these things at all times is a significant challenge; in times of trouble, it becomes almost impossible.

Donald Trump's regime in COVID-19 is an example of this. The virus has spread at an astounding rate, and lockdown seems to be the only solution. Lockdown, with normal activity restricted can cause a recession in the economy. Trump's supporters are Republicans who stereotypically like to enjoy laissez-faire policies which facilitate companies. Trump and most of his Republican supporters have thus avoided taking significant measures to lockdown businesses and individuals; they have even avoided imposing mask mandates, fearing their supporters will view such measures as limiting freedom.

Trump didn't order a nation wide lockdown, only advising states to conform to the idea. This meant that by the end of march, only 32/50 states had started to participate in a lockdown. His own negative personal view on the matter was plain to see. He didn’t wear masks properly and took a casual stance in important discussions that could decide people's chances of survival. This gives an impression to his nation that the virus is not important, or really an issue at all. Which has resulted in the American people’s frivolousness in terms of virus precaution and so America has conceded the most amount of cases. It is likely that Trump's inaction regarding Covid has been a significant factor in his losing the election this month.

In contrast New Zealand has only experienced 2005 cases and according to the world health organisation is a nation to aspire to. Jacinda Ardern, the prime minister of the country, has taken a unyielding position in terms of the virus. She has decided that she is “not willing to put any citizen at risk.”  Her firm leadership has enforced multiple national lockdowns, and even a border closure to all non-inhabitants. These actions have limited the number of cases to an absolute minimum. Some have stood against her, like Judith Collins, a candidate for her position, who presented an argument that stated the lockdown would cause an irreversible effect on the economy. But Ardern has remained calm, focused and dedicated. Clear communication has been her priority with an easy 4 stage lockdown process, that provided a testing centre which can hold 10,000 attendees every day. Coherent updates being announced every few hours, to keep the populace informed. This style of leadership has produced an outcome many other countries can admire.