Who knew? If an election does not feel like a change-of-government election, it probably isn't one. This was long the most puzzling aspect of this contest: routine polling predictions of Labor victory while nobody, it seemed, had personally come across a mood for change. It was oft-remarked, but seemed easily explained. Nobody was thrilled by Bill Shorten, but voters were tired enough of a divided Coalition to give Labor a go.Bill Shorten concedes defeat late on Saturday night.
Saturday brought heartbreak for Labor. It is hard to overstate the hurt. Government had seemed so close, for so long. To watch that future bleed away as the night dragged on and votes trickled in was baffling and bruising for those in Labor ranks. Deliver a unified party, come up with an impressive platform, face down a divided government – what else could they have done?
Comparisons with 1993 and John Hewson are everywhere. But 2004 might serve just as well: a government with few ideas wins, at a time of relative complacency, against a leader who voters find concerning. Which set of lessons should be drawn?
mrseankelly From RealMarkLatham The paradox of today's Labor: Their energy policies appeal only to the wealthy and powerful, who can actually afford them. Their social policies are an exercise in elite privilege and power: telling everyone else how to give their lives. 👏👏👏
mrseankelly The lesser of two evils.
mrseankelly The level of voter disgust should be in The Red.. but alas..
mrseankelly As many have pointed out, there was even more disgust for shorten. How he could have been favorite I will never know.
mrseankelly Now the people of Australia must ask why actually!
mrseankelly Shorten's 'Top end of Town' class warfare garbage lost him the election.
mrseankelly Because increasing taxes & taxing the life out of the economy isn’t tax reform. People could also see thru this weak husband cheating, union thug, fake grub
mrseankelly Perspective: The level of voter disgust with the Labor government was not enough to vote it in and give Labor a chance. Now the ALP must ask why
mrseankelly Once Malcolm was gone Voters could see the unity returned with Scott
mrseankelly But they won’t
mrseankelly Do you want the Shorten answer.... or long one?
mrseankelly More voters we're disgusted with Shorten & the ALP
mrseankelly a Liberal supporter my whole life so I should be celebrating. Im not though because this time I wanted to see change. Goodbye great barrier reef I’m so sorry my country doesn’t care enough about you. Sorry also to those wrongfully caught up in our disgusting migration act 501 😞