Christopher Pyne and Bill Shorten dissect week three of the election campaign | 7.30

Key Concepts

• Negative Gearing
• Housing Policy
• Fiscal Rectitude
• Campaign Traction
• Leadership Performance
• Economic Credentials
• Supply of Housing
• MAGA (Make America Great Again)

Campaign Launches and Housing Policies

The discussion begins with an analysis of the campaign launches and housing policies presented by both major parties. Christopher Pine notes that this week marked the first time the election truly captured public interest, with passionate arguments emerging between figures like Michael Sukar and Clare O'Neal. He points out that both leaders, Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton, faced challenges, with Albanese facing contradiction over negative gearing modeling and Dutton admitting a mistake regarding Russian air bases in Papa.

Negative Gearing and Labor's Position

Bill Shorton addresses the topic of negative gearing, acknowledging its controversial history in Australian politics. He advises Anthony Albanese to focus on other housing strategies, as Labor has moved on from its previous stance. Shorton believes the Liberal campaign is struggling and criticizes their reliance on "gotcha" moments and scare tactics. He suggests the Liberal Party is "drowning not waving" and that Peter Dutton is running out of time to gain traction.

Leadership and Campaign Performance

Pine observes that the leaders' debates, launches, and housing policies have prompted the public to consider which party is best suited to address cost of living and the housing crisis. He believes the disagreements between Albanese and Dutton are a positive aspect of the campaign. Pine suggests that this week has been a reset for Peter Dutton, who started the week behind.

Fiscal Rectitude and Economic Credentials

The conversation shifts to the coalition's emphasis on fiscal rectitude. Pine argues that the coalition's reputation for smaller government, lower taxes, and balanced budgets is well-established, similar to Labor's association with increased spending on health and education. He notes the lack of focus on addressing the supply of housing and workers in the housing policies. Pine also observes that state governments with high debt levels haven't necessarily faced significant political consequences.

MAGA and Internal Party Dynamics

Shorton criticizes Justinta Price for invoking "MAGA" sentiments, suggesting it undermined Peter Dutton's efforts to distance himself from Trump-like policies. He argues that this incident highlights a lack of unity and focus within the Liberal Party. Shorton also mentions that Jim Chalmers has delivered two surplus budgets.

Conclusion

The discussion concludes with the panelists agreeing that the campaign is now in full swing. They express anticipation for the upcoming week and further developments in the election. The main takeaways are that the election campaign has finally gained traction, both leaders have faced challenges, negative gearing remains a sensitive topic, and the Liberal Party is struggling to gain momentum.