Hmm..
A point that seems to be forgotten, is that whilst the seat is 'marginal', it is such with a consistent primary vote to JH of 49% (53% in 2001). The ALP at the past two elections achieved primary votes of 30% (2001) and 28% (2004). Unless the ALP obtain a huge swing in the primary vote, it is all but a distant dream. Poll Bludger makes an extremely valid point, in saying that Rudd's 'arrogance' is starting to show through, particularly with this decision.
As Tony Abbott said, "Bennelong residents would see Ms McKew as "Madam Blow-In", while Mr Howard was in his electorate office almost every Friday seeing constituents"
As the NSW shapes up as a sure victory for the ALP, the challenge for the Federal ALP becomes the little bit harder. If a sub-standard government, as exists in NSW, can obtain a comfortable election win, it would take something extremely big to sway the voters to not only vote against the status quo federally, but also to consign themselves to wall to wall ALP governments across Australia.
