06/11/2008 (All day)

Howard's 'deputy sheriff' role will not be fondly remembered

Barack Obama's globally popular win in the US Presidential election puts a lid on the divisive and conservative politics of the Bush, Blair and Howard era, most notable for the bloody and avoidable Iraq War, Australian Greens Leader Senator Bob Brown said today.

"The reaction to George Bush's inept and damaging Presidency will be long and profound, with Americans electing a more liberal, humane and inclusive government, following Australia's lead in 2007," Senator Brown said.

"History will judge Bush, Blair and Howard as aberrations. The popular tide is sweeping away the simplistic neo-liberalism which was the hallmark of the era.

"Obama's win is a massive rebuff to George W. Bush and underscores the embarrassment for many Australians in John Howard's obsequiousness to Bush.

"Howard will be unfondly remembered as Bush's 'deputy sheriff'," Senator Brown said.

"The world needs more humane, more inclusive and greener governments, and Obama is off to a good start to implement it."

Further information: Tim Hollo 0437 587 562

Tim Hollo
Media Adviser
Senator Christine Milne
ph: (02) 6277 3588
mob: 0437 587 562