Political Rulebook Discarded as Leaders Gear Up for Election
As the election approaches, leaders Albanese and Dutton are shaking things up to win over voters.
Australia, Anthony Albanese, Peter Dutton, Election, Cost of Living
Canberra: So, it looks like Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton are really stepping up their game as they head into the new year. They’ve been in the political scene for ages, but now they’re both trying to change how voters see them before the federal election.
Even though we don’t have a set date for the election yet, both leaders are already kicking off their campaigns. They’re holding rallies and making funding announcements, trying to get ahead of the game.
With the election deadline looming by May 17, and a hung parliament looking likely, it seems like the usual political playbook is out the window. Tony Barry from RedBridge Group pointed out that this is a big shift from the norm.
He mentioned that typically, politics takes a backseat until after Australia Day, but with the polls opening soon, they can’t afford to wait.
Albanese has been busy announcing new infrastructure projects, promising to “build Australia’s future.” Meanwhile, Dutton is focusing on law and order, trying to regain support for the coalition in Victoria.
Barry noted that both leaders are trying to play to their party’s strengths right from the start. Albanese can’t rely on his record, so Labor is pushing a message of hope and optimism.
He added that they need to convince Australians that their plans are working and that they should be allowed to finish what they started.
Albanese even cut his Christmas break short to jump into campaign mode. Barry also pointed out that rising cost-of-living issues are shaping Dutton’s strategy as he heads into this election year.
Dutton is sticking to his strengths instead of trying to change who he is. Barry believes voters are looking for a strong leader, and Dutton fits that bill in their eyes.
Political historian Joshua Black from the Australian National University thinks it’s not too late for either party to make a significant impact before the election.
He noted that voters are becoming less loyal to a single party and are more willing to switch their votes. Both parties are investing in programs they believe will resonate with their base.
It seems like early campaigning is becoming the new norm in politics these days.