Luxon defends MP over disputed gang photo, draws line with opposition candidates

Christopher Luxon told reporters that suggesting the image of National MP Tama Potaka with gang members is comparable to photos of Labour, Green and Te Pāti Māori politicians at gang events would be disingenuous. The photo, Luxon said, was taken three years ago at a Kiingitanga gathering in Hamilton and did not involve campaigning, fundraising, or any endorsement of the Mongrel Mob. He urged the media to speak with Potaka for clarification on crime and law-and-order issues.

Police Minister Mark Mitchell, who had spoken with Potaka, explained that the MP was merely present at a public function and was not seeking votes from gang members, unlike recent Labour candidate Kerrin Leoni who resigned after a video showed her at a gang-funded fundraiser. Luxon and Mitchell both highlighted the difference between being approached by gang members at public events and deliberately appearing at gang-run venues in party attire.