New Zealand's Political Landscape Shifts Right with Election of Conservative Premier

Christopher Luxon, a conservative former businessperson, has been elected as the next prime minister of New Zealand, ending six years of liberal rule under Jacinda Ardern. Luxon's National Party secured about 40% of the vote, and he is expected to form an alliance with the libertarian ACT Party. The Labour Party, led by outgoing Prime Minister Chris Hipkins, received only a little over 25% of the vote. Luxon has promised tax cuts and a crackdown on crime, while Hipkins had pledged free dental care and the removal of sales taxes on certain items. Luxon's victory reflects a desire for change among voters, who expressed concerns about the economy and the cost of living.