Political Theatre (AKA - He's on a Horse)

I won't even pretend that I know very much about Australian politics. We don't have a TV, so don't follow the Canberra goings on, and as non-citizens, we don't vote. But, the current political situation is actually rather compelling because, in the most recent election, there was no majority winner amongst the two main parties. And so, what you ended up with was a situation where the Prime Minister was selected by a member of a minor party. And now, any votes that divide down party lines are decided by minority parties, who usually form alliances with the larger parties. Imagine a situation where the health care bill or even who the President is came down to a vote of the Guns and Pot Party (that's real - look it up!) or any wacky party that managed to secure one seat.

Also, the ministers are super rude to each other in session. I heard about the recent "Call to Civility" by former members of the U.S. Congress, and I thought, "these guys have never seen an Australian Parliament session!"

In any case, that was a long and winding road to take you on in order to set up what I really came here to show you, which is this hilarious little video. (You'll think it's hilarious if you are in Australia ... results may vary for the rest of the world).

Here's all you really need to know:

Tony Abbott = head of the Liberal Party (think Republicans, sort of. I know, it's confusing.). Known for wandering around in front of cameras in his budgie smugglers and generally being a dude. He's the one who didn't win, even though he really, really wanted to.

Julia Gillard =Prime Minister of Australia. Ginger. Head of the Labor Party (think Democrats, sort of). She craftily edged out old PM Kevin Rudd in the hopes that her party would get re-elected. As the Beastie Boys said, she's crafty. Also well known for being, you know, a lady.

The Old Spice Guy = the man you wish

your man ... ummmm... smelled like. He's on a horse.