3rd New Zealand party leader quits in close election race
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The leader of a small New Zealand political party says he won't contest next month's election, making him the third leader to quit this month in a campaign that's been transformed by the rise of Opposition Leader Jacinda Ardern.
United Future leader Peter Dunne said Monday there's a mood for change in the district where he has served as a lawmaker for 33 years.
The move comes as a blow to Prime Minister Bill English and his conservative National Party, who relied on Dunne's support. Dunne was his party's sole representative in Parliament.
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Three weeks ago, Opposition Leader Andrew Little quit following dismal polling, allowing Ardern to step into the position. A week later, Green Party co-leader Metiria Turei resigned.
Polls indicate a close election race between English and Ardern.