The Liberal party is gearing up to bid farewell to Scott Morrison’s legacy as voters in Sydney’s south head to the polls to choose his successor.
The by-election in the Cook electorate, following Morrison’s departure from politics earlier this year, is expected to be won by Liberal candidate Simon Kennedy.
Despite Kennedy’s strong position, the presence of six candidates from various parties adds an element of competition to the race, with Labor notably absent from the lineup.
Kennedy, a seasoned management consultant, secured the nomination for the seat amidst speculation about gender diversity in the party’s selection process.
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Having previously contested in Bennelong, Kennedy’s move to the Cook electorate signifies a fresh start for the Liberal party, aiming to distance itself from Morrison’s controversial tenure.
Dr. Kevin Bonham, an election analyst, views this transition as an opportunity for the party to redefine its image and move forward.
The aftermath of Morrison’s leadership continues to impact the political landscape, with his actions during the Covid-19 pandemic drawing scrutiny and criticism.
While byelections often serve as indicators of public sentiment, the absence of a Labor candidate in this race may limit the insights gained from the results, according to Bonham.
Concerns about voter turnout have also emerged, with early voting numbers showing a decline compared to previous elections.
As the electorate prepares to cast their votes, the outcome of the Cook by-election will undoubtedly shape the future political landscape in Australia.
2024-04-12 21:29:48
Original from www.theguardian.com