While the rest of us were reacting to Donald Trump’s election with outrage and hysteria, Bill Shorten swooped in and served up the no-nonsense response we all needed to read.
The Labor leader posted a statement to Facebook, telling his followers that while America’s decision will have consequences for the world and for Australia, it’s something we must respect.
But disrespect and discrimination is most definitely not.
The Opposition Leader assured his followers Australia's alliance with the United States will endure under Trump's leadership.
"It is far bigger than any individual, far more powerful than any personality - and it will endure.
"The friendship between our nations is strong enough for honesty.
"I will always call it as I see it.
"If I see women being disrespected, I’m going to call it out.
"If I see people being discriminated against because of the colour of their skin or their religion, I’m going to call it out.
"As the alternative Prime Minister of this country, Australians are entitled to know where I stand."
Shorten had been openly supportive of Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton in the leadup to tonight's vote, and at times striking candid about his views on Trump.
In fact, speaking on Darwin radio station Hot 100FM back in May he went as far as to say: "I think Donald Trump's views are just barking mad on some issues."
Hear Mia Freedman, Rosie Waterland, Jessie Stephens and others debriefing about the US election on a special Mamamia Out Loud bonus episode, here:
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Top Comments
This is amusing. I would anticipate that the President-elect has no idea who Shorten is. Let's be honest - Bill is a political crumb on the world stage.
Bill is low energy.