7am Saturday special: Albanese's election plans
15 snips
Feb 21, 2025 Paul Bongiorno, a columnist at The Saturday Paper, dives into the political pressure surrounding Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's election timing. He discusses how Labor backbenchers are keen on calling an election after recent interest rate cuts. Bongiorno examines Peter Dutton's struggles for relevance as he navigates government successes without solid policy responses. The conversation also touches on urgent political moves, like the impact of the Wayala steelworks on job preservation, and the government's communication tactics in a challenging economic landscape.
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Episode notes
Election Timing Pressure
- Nervous Labor backbenchers, especially in mortgage belt seats, want Albanese to call an election soon.
- They believe the recent rate cut offers a favorable political opportunity.
Chalmers' Media Blitz
- Treasurer Jim Chalmers engaged in numerous media appearances following the rate cut announcement.
- A colleague jokingly compared his media presence to Kevin Rudd's.
Election Timing & WA Election
- An election must be called within 33 days of the desired election date.
- The timing is complicated by the Western Australian state election on March 8.