New Zealand’s Jacinda Ardern, an icon to many, to step down
 

(AP) — New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who became a global icon of the left and exemplified a new style of leadership, said Thursday that she would leave office.

Just 37 when she became leader, Ardern was praised around the world for her handling of the nation’s worst-ever mass shooting and the early stages of the coronavirus pandemic. But she faced mounting political pressures at home and a level of vitriol from some that hadn’t been experienced by previous New Zealand leaders.

Still, her announcement came as a shock throughout the nation of 5 million people.

Fighting back tears, Ardern told reporters in Napier that Feb. 7 would be her last day as prime minister after five and a half years in office.

“I know what this job takes, and I know that I no longer have enough in the tank to do it justice. It is that simple,” she said.

Lawmakers in her Labour Party will vote for a new leader on Sunday.

Ardern became an inspiration to women around the world after first winning the top job in 2017. She seemed to herald a new generation of leadership — she was on the verge of being a millennial, had spun some records as a part-time DJ, and wasn’t married like most politicians.

SOURCE:https://apnews.com/article/politics-new-zealand-government-covid-jacinda-ardern-0e6d8eedd96f94aab07eeb0c37164591

Comprehension

Who became a global icon and exemplified a new style of leadership?
How old was she when she became the prime minister?
Why was she praised around the world?
How long does she hold her position as the prime minister?
When would be her last day as prime minister?

Discussion

What are your thoughts on Jacinda Ardern's stepping down?
What did you know about Ardern and her leadership before reading this article?
Is your country's current leader well-liked? Has this changed over the years?
What has your government been praised for in recent years? What is it often criticized for?
What are the biggest challenges your government has faced in recent times?
What world leaders would you most like to meet?
Has your country ever been governed by a woman?
Which of your country's past leaders faced the most challenges while in office?

Vocabulary

global icon - covering, influencing, or relating to the whole world.
exemplified - be a typical example of.
vitriol - cruel and bitter criticism.
verge - approach (something) closely; be close or similar to (something).
fighting back tears