The Showdown begins

Apologies for the long time between posts. Work is busy busy.

So, November 24 is the day 'Australia decides.' I was reminded this week of a scene from the doco 'The War Room' about the Clinton campaign office during his successful presidential push. One of his staff judged each day as a win, lose or draw and I thought it would be interesting to keep my own tally during the campaign. So, here goes.

Weekend 1 October 20-21
The leaders debate dominated coverage of the weekend with most commentators awarding the contest to Rudd. Although I thought the debate too close to call, the night will benefit Rudd more than Howard. Despite a nervous start, Rudd appeared the more forward looking of the two. Howard failed to repudiate the charge that he is yesterday’s man – too often he was caught talking about his achievements during the past 11 years. This did two things. It reminded voters of how long he has been around for and reinforced Rudd’s image as a breath of fresh air and Labor as the party with a plan for Australia’s future.

Howard’s use of the forum to make two policy announcements – one concerning Iraq, the other climate change – was misjudged, particularly given the current mood of the electorate.

Rudd’s willingness to attack Howard’s record as treasurer (under Fraser 1977-83) was the most obvious sign that the Labor Party finally have a leader prepared to take it to the government on issues concerning the economy. Rudd continues to look like a man that is capable of leading the nation, and that is more bad news for the government. The Verdict – a strong win for Labor.
Cumulative Tally - Howard 2.5, Rudd 3.5

Friday, 19 October 2007
Labor's tax announcement today dominated headlines and will give Kevin Rudd a much needed boost as the election heads into its first weekend. The Labor plan, with tax cuts of $31 billion, embraces much of the government's own planned tax cuts and will strengthen Rudd's image as an economic conservative. However, despite the echo, the distinction between the two parties when it comes to tax is an important one. Labor has ignored the government's tax breaks aimed at those who earn over $180 000 per annum and has promised that money to health and education. The money for education will go the parents with children at primary and secondary school, the money for health will aim to reduce waiting lists for elective surgery. The package announced today will play well over the weekend and should have Labor in front come the start of next week. Verdict - Labor's first win of the campaign.
Cumulative Tally - Howard 2.5, Rudd 2.5


Thursday, 18 October 2007
Another day where neither party made significant progress in the race for our 'hearts and minds.' The issue of this Sunday's debate continues to simmer and demonstrates the power in incumbency. Howard is able to dictate his terms and Rudd can do little but go along with him. I still think he could be attacking Howard's insistence on only one debate so early in the campaign. Labor looks shaky on tax. The government's attacks on Labor's union links don't seem to be making much of a dent though. Verdict - another draw.
Cumulative Tally - Howard 2.5, Rudd 1.5


Wednesday, 17 October 2007
The funeral of Trooper David Pearce, killed last week in Afghanistan, meant that John Howard and Kevin Rudd were in Brisbane today. The soldier's funeral also seemed to take some of the spark out of the sparring that Howard and Rudd have engaged in during the first week of the campaign. Peter Costello launched a new Liberal advertisement that draws attention to the number of Labor shadow ministers with union links. Costello was particularly scathing when describing Julia Gillard's work for a socialist organisation when she was an industrial lawyer. Expect the attacks on Gillard to intensify as the campaign continues. Rudd announced plans to encourage nurses back into the workforce, but did so in a hospital that was manged by a local board - the Coalition model derided by Labor. Overall though an unremarkable day. Verdict - Draw
Cumulative Tally - Howard 2, Rudd 1

Tuesday, 16 October 2007.
Rudd announces a Labor plan to release more land on the fringes of major cities to combat housing prices. The plan was given a lukewarm response from the housing industry. The coalition enjoys continued traction from their tax announcement yesterday. Verdict - Draw
Cumulative Tally - Howard 1.5, Rudd 0.5

Monday, 15 October 2007.
Howard announces massive tax cuts if coalition reelected. The government is on the front foot early but Howard slips late in the day by getting the official interest rate wrong on ACA. Still a good first day for the government. Verdict - A win for Howard.
Cumulative Tally - Howard 1, Rudd 0