By 7:45 pm on ABC TV, polster, Kosmo Samaras was almost ready to call it—Labor is riding a 3 per cent national swing. With just 4.9 per cent of the vote counted, the ALP has 29 seats to the LNP’s 26.
The ABC’s Patricia Karvelas highlighted the strong support Labor continues to enjoy among Chinese-Australian voters. Samaras agreed, noting backing from “multicultural communities, young people,” and even “older Australians.”
It’s almost certain Dutton may lose his seat of Dickson. Culture wars – such as discussions on Welcome to Country – may resonate with the small cohort that watches Sky News, but not mainstream Australians.
While both major parties await the bulk of pre-poll votes, the needle seems unlikely to shift dramatically. LNP panellists on the ABC appeared resigned, holding out hope for pre-poll numbers—but it’s unlikely to be mana from heaven for the Coalition.
Culture wars – such as discussions on Welcome to Country – may resonate with the small cohort that watches Sky News, but not mainstream Australians.
LNP Senator James McGrath blamed pre-polling for the Coalition’s woes, expressing nostalgia for the days of a single “election day.” He also pointed to challenges beyond Labor, including the Teals, Trumpet of Patriots, and independents.
The panel repeatedly noted the Coalition’s late policy announcements and unclear costings.
Independent Senator Jacqui Lambie called the Coalition’s campaign “lacklustre.”
Treasurer Jim Chalmers, also appearing on the ABC, tried to mask his excitement—but couldn’t hide his anticipation of what increasingly looks like a majority Labor government. Chalmers also said he was confident that Labor would take Greens’ seats in Brisbane.
