[CamB]

if I had the resources I could destroy the Democrat party and base it factually

I don't think it would work though - there are too many people who find the GOP's policies, etc, unpalatable. Where else would they go?

I actually had this conversation with my wife yesterday about our local body politicians (the city council). She wants the current mayor out, and will vote for whomever will accomplish that goal. She doesn't even like ANY of the three major candidates.

I guess I'm saying that until a viable alternative comes around, the Democrat party will continue no matter what you do or say. Its level of support may vary, but probably not by a truely huge amount.

(edit) I better answer the original question...

To succeed in politics in this country, you need the following:

- to become involved early (I'm talking early 20s)
- to schmooooooze
- to earn little and work hard(ish) (mostly schmoozing)
- did I mention schmooozing yet?

You don't need to be wealthy, although it is vital, from what I've seen, in the US. Its not in my nature to schmooze, I would wilt under any personal attacks, and more importantly the futility of having to work with other politicians would grind me into nothing in short order.

NZ's finest citizens do not follow political careers, so our leaders aren't exactly the top of the pile. They are ok, but not great.