Former Auckland mayoral candidate John Palino to stand for parliament

Ripu Bhatia Reporter from Community News

Hi neighbours,

John Palino has announced his intention to run in the 2020 general election despite not being in the country.

Palino, who is best known for his three unsuccessful campaigns for Auckland mayor, has signed on as a list candidate for the minor Tea Party.

But Palino is currently based in Florida, United States, after travelling to visit family at the end of last year and deeming it too dangerous to return due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

He says he will run his campaign from there and return if the Tea Party is “lucky and fortunate” to get enough votes.

The Taxpayers and Entrepreneurs Alliance formally registered earlier this year, and is running on a platform of support for business, opposition to capital gains taxes, opposition to recreational drugs, and embracing migration.

Palino was approached to stand by Tea Party co-leader John Hong, who ran alongside Palino in the Auckland race last year.

Do you think the fourth time is the charm for the once mayoral hopeful?