ABC tv news has just claimed that a move against Kevin Rudd’s leadership is on tonight, emanating from Victoria and including “senior ministers”. Tomorrow is the last sitting day of this session of parliament. There’s nothing on the web so far.
The story follows a report in today’s Fairfax papers that Kevin Rudd’s chief of staff, Alister Jordan, had been asked to take soundings among MPs on the Prime Minister’s behalf, and claims from The Australian that Julia Gillard had done herself and her party a dis-service by not initiating the challenge the paper had been talking up at yesterday’s caucus.
Update: There’s now a report on the ABC News website.
Update: The Twitter hashtag #spill is being revived… though #ruddroll also has its admirers.
Update: Kerry O’Brien says there’ll be more later on in the 7.30 Report. Meanwhile, the most astute summary on Twitter comes from RachWelsh who points out that some tweeting journos with sources are saying something is happening, and others are not.
Update: Heather Ewart on the 7.30 Report claimed that meetings were taking place between elements of the NSW and Victorian Right, and Mark Arbib is said to have defected from Rudd. She reported that Gillard is meeting with Rudd, but of course, Gillard may be meeting with Rudd to quash the unchallenge. Or not.
Update: Fairfax reports (at 7.39pm) that Gillard’s office has said “nothing has changed”.
Update: There’s very little news among all the noise. Bill Shorten is said to be one of those orchestrating the unchallenge, and the AWU has reportedly withdrawn its support for Rudd.
Julia Gillard, Wayne Swan, Anthony Albanese and John Faulkner are reported to be in Kevin Rudd’s office.
Gillard is reported to be not intending to challenge.
This micro-event, it would seem, has been brought to you by the genius “strategists” who talked Rudd into dropping the ETS in the first place, setting in train his plunge in the polls. The NSW Right, as I’ve said before, knows no other response to bad focus groups than to bring on a leadership challenge. Political courage and leadership is unknown among the apparatchiks and Sussex Street types.
And we’ve also had an unprecedented campaign against the PM from the media and the mining industry. While I’d like to see Gillard become PM, the Labor Party would be insane to dump Rudd now, and nor should they.
This will be highly damaging, coming as it does just at the point when it appeared that things could be turned around for the government. If I were Julia Gillard, I’d urge Rudd to convene a caucus meeting tomorrow morning, and personally move a confidence motion in his leadership. And heads should roll in the ALP. Soon.
Update: The Punch, which is live blogging what is still the unchallenge, reports that John Faulkner between Gillard and Rudd.
I’ll repeat what I said before: if the ALP dumps Rudd now, it will be the height of stupidity, and be a demonstration of nothing but craven cowardice in the face of a media/mining industry orchestrated campaign, at a time when the polls indicate, despite a low primary vote, the ALP is still odds on to win the election.
Update: Paul Howes has just Tweeted that he’ll be on Lateline to explain the AWU’s position.
Update: Rachel Hills says it all on Twitter:
I feel like much of the anti-Rudd sentiment recently is more journalists getting bored with him than a newfound excess of crapness. #spill
Update: The Drum editor Jonathan Green on Twitter:
a certain smugness in the media at this coup by commentariat
Update: Sky News is reporting Kevin Rudd will be giving a press conference in the next 5 to 10 minutes.
Update: Lots of Tweets claiming that Rudd is about to quit.
Update: Rudd’s press conference will be televised live on ABC1 very soon.
Update: Rudd has convened caucus to meet at 9am. Gillard will be challenging. He is not standing down.
Update: Rudd indicates he will be running against faction and union domination. He is also running against the NSW Right, indicating that if he wins he will not be retreating from the RSPT, or giving in to calls for a hardline on asylum seekers. He suggested forward movement on climate change.
Update: New thread here.
The move against the ABC will be on if the ALP win the next election.
The move against the ABC will be on if the ALP win the next election.
There’s a report up on the ABC website now:
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/06/23/2935224.htm
There’s a report up on the ABC website now:
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/06/23/2935224.htm
There aren’t that many senior ministers from Victoria, depending on one’s definition of senior. Cabinet ministers are Gillard, Conroy, Ferguson, Roxon, Macklin and Carr.
One should always suspect Conroy’s involvement in these matters and it wouldn’t surprise if Ferguson, who is very close to the mining industry, is in on it too.
There aren’t that many senior ministers from Victoria, depending on one’s definition of senior. Cabinet ministers are Gillard, Conroy, Ferguson, Roxon, Macklin and Carr.
One should always suspect Conroy’s involvement in these matters and it wouldn’t surprise if Ferguson, who is very close to the mining industry, is in on it too.
Tanner’s from Victoria.
Tanner’s from Victoria.
@3 – if, indeed, there’s anything to be in on.
@3 – if, indeed, there’s anything to be in on.
No mention on SBS news, which featured statements of support for Rudd from John Faulkner and Stephen Smith when asked OT questions by journos at news conferences today.
No mention on SBS news, which featured statements of support for Rudd from John Faulkner and Stephen Smith when asked OT questions by journos at news conferences today.
And from ABC News online
“…Although Mr Rudd looks likely to survive the challenge, news of the attempted coup will undoubtedly weaken him….”
And from ABC News online
“…Although Mr Rudd looks likely to survive the challenge, news of the attempted coup will undoubtedly weaken him….”
Update: The Twitter hashtag #spill is being revived.
Update: The Twitter hashtag #spill is being revived.
Yes, Tanner.
We know he thinks he is in grave to lose his seat. Would he be less likely to lose it with Gillard as PM? Probably.
Yes, Tanner.
We know he thinks he is in grave to lose his seat. Would he be less likely to lose it with Gillard as PM? Probably.
If Julia didn’t nominate, how would Lindsay Tanner go as *Surprise PM*? Competent, articulate, but as serious (“dull”) as Kevin.
While it’d warm the very cockles to see a Gippsland boy get the top job, I can’t see it happening this side of 2014.
If Julia didn’t nominate, how would Lindsay Tanner go as *Surprise PM*? Competent, articulate, but as serious (“dull”) as Kevin.
While it’d warm the very cockles to see a Gippsland boy get the top job, I can’t see it happening this side of 2014.
The extraordinary thing is that the ABC is actually reporting it as if it’s a challenge, while at the same time admitting that it’s not actually a challenge.
The extraordinary thing is that the ABC is actually reporting it as if it’s a challenge, while at the same time admitting that it’s not actually a challenge.
ABC mentions factional warlords – sounds like it could be M Ferguson and Conroy.
It would be ironic if the mining industry, not being content to change the Liberal’s leadership, changes Labor’s as well.
ABC mentions factional warlords – sounds like it could be M Ferguson and Conroy.
It would be ironic if the mining industry, not being content to change the Liberal’s leadership, changes Labor’s as well.
@11 – I’m wondering what sort of due diligence they’ve done before they’ve gone live with a “breaking story”, Tim. Kerry O’Brien just said there’d be an update on the 7.30 Report later.
Meanwhile, #ruddroll has its fans on Twitter too:
https://twitter.com/#search?q=%23ruddroll
@11 – I’m wondering what sort of due diligence they’ve done before they’ve gone live with a “breaking story”, Tim. Kerry O’Brien just said there’d be an update on the 7.30 Report later.
Meanwhile, #ruddroll has its fans on Twitter too:
https://twitter.com/#search?q=%23ruddroll
SBS just mentioned it is believed “Gillard is moving against Rudd”.
SBS just mentioned it is believed “Gillard is moving against Rudd”.
This is awesome! Krudd will be gone from the government he stole from Howard with the rest of them to follow during the election. (By which I mean this is disgusting and if it’s pulled off the media and private industry will have proven that they own Australian politics. I still think Rudd is one of the best PM’s we’ve ever had. More fool me by the looks of it.)
This is awesome! Krudd will be gone from the government he stole from Howard with the rest of them to follow during the election. (By which I mean this is disgusting and if it’s pulled off the media and private industry will have proven that they own Australian politics. I still think Rudd is one of the best PM’s we’ve ever had. More fool me by the looks of it.)
But Peter Wood,
where’s the evidence that Ms Gillard or Mr Tanner oppose the RSPT or would gut it? More likely to modify it is the Rudd/Swan duo I would have thought….
But Peter Wood,
where’s the evidence that Ms Gillard or Mr Tanner oppose the RSPT or would gut it? More likely to modify it is the Rudd/Swan duo I would have thought….
Meanwhile, the most astute summary on Twitter comes from RachWelsh who points out that some tweeting journos with sources are saying something is happening, and others are not.
It’s also being described as an “unchallenge”.
Meanwhile, the most astute summary on Twitter comes from RachWelsh who points out that some tweeting journos with sources are saying something is happening, and others are not.
It’s also being described as an “unchallenge”.
et tu Juliana?
et tu Juliana?
“ABC mentions factional warlords – sounds like it could be M Ferguson and Conroy”
Yep.
“It would be ironic if the mining industry, not being content to change the Liberal’s leadership, changes Labor’s as well.”
It would be a display of corporate power not seen since the United Fruit Company organised a military coup against the democratically elected government of Guatemala in 1954. One can only stand back and admire.
Anyway, from the standpoint of the hard heads in the Labor Party, it has a certain logic. Install Gillard; she goes straight to the GG and gets parliament dissolved, maybe even for a DD. She can claim she needs a mandate from the people and runs a campaign in her honeymoon period. She runs as first woman PM versus de Torquemada in lycra.
It might even work.
“ABC mentions factional warlords – sounds like it could be M Ferguson and Conroy”
Yep.
“It would be ironic if the mining industry, not being content to change the Liberal’s leadership, changes Labor’s as well.”
It would be a display of corporate power not seen since the United Fruit Company organised a military coup against the democratically elected government of Guatemala in 1954. One can only stand back and admire.
Anyway, from the standpoint of the hard heads in the Labor Party, it has a certain logic. Install Gillard; she goes straight to the GG and gets parliament dissolved, maybe even for a DD. She can claim she needs a mandate from the people and runs a campaign in her honeymoon period. She runs as first woman PM versus de Torquemada in lycra.
It might even work.
Depends if the claims that Gillard is talking to Rudd are true or not, and if she is talking to Rudd about quashing the unchallenge, or having a challenge.
Depends if the claims that Gillard is talking to Rudd are true or not, and if she is talking to Rudd about quashing the unchallenge, or having a challenge.
Please tell me this is not true. Whoever is resposible for this act of utter bastardry must be working for the liebrals. I cannot believe that the Labor party could be this stupid, if the challenge is on they are no hope of winning the next election. Disunity is death, and all they had to do was hold firm behind Rudd and I’m sure the polls would have improved.
I feel like weeping.
Please tell me this is not true. Whoever is resposible for this act of utter bastardry must be working for the liebrals. I cannot believe that the Labor party could be this stupid, if the challenge is on they are no hope of winning the next election. Disunity is death, and all they had to do was hold firm behind Rudd and I’m sure the polls would have improved.
I feel like weeping.
DD?
Can the GG dissolve Parliament for a Drover’s Dog?
Now I’ve heard everything!
DD?
Can the GG dissolve Parliament for a Drover’s Dog?
Now I’ve heard everything!
This is starting to get ridiculous. As someone pointed out the headline “Labor in talks to oust Rudd” isn’t what the story is about. It’s still the same spin that they’ve applied to the “canvassing” carried out by Rudd’s adviser, something that many ALP MPs appeared to be quite happy about. Following hot on the heels of Monday’s “Asutralian Story” with all it’s lack of substance one is left shaking ones head at the lengths the Australian and the ABC will go to to get rid of this Labor govt.
It has been said here that the influence of the media over voting intention is marginal but I believe this puts us into uncharted waters with regard to attempts to unseat an elected govt. by the fourth estate. You could bring up Whitlam but I’d argue that this govt. is largely uncontroversial and doesn’t appear to have done anything to deserve the level of opprobrium that the sections of the media feel towards it.
The ALP would be stark staring mad to change leaders now. Even a boofhead like Downer new that and his leader was actually less popular than the leader of the opposition at the time. Rudd is actually ahead. I don’t believe the story has any substance and thus can only be construed as a confected campaign.
Ross Gittens is mutinying in the SMH today.
This is starting to get ridiculous. As someone pointed out the headline “Labor in talks to oust Rudd” isn’t what the story is about. It’s still the same spin that they’ve applied to the “canvassing” carried out by Rudd’s adviser, something that many ALP MPs appeared to be quite happy about. Following hot on the heels of Monday’s “Asutralian Story” with all it’s lack of substance one is left shaking ones head at the lengths the Australian and the ABC will go to to get rid of this Labor govt.
It has been said here that the influence of the media over voting intention is marginal but I believe this puts us into uncharted waters with regard to attempts to unseat an elected govt. by the fourth estate. You could bring up Whitlam but I’d argue that this govt. is largely uncontroversial and doesn’t appear to have done anything to deserve the level of opprobrium that the sections of the media feel towards it.
The ALP would be stark staring mad to change leaders now. Even a boofhead like Downer new that and his leader was actually less popular than the leader of the opposition at the time. Rudd is actually ahead. I don’t believe the story has any substance and thus can only be construed as a confected campaign.
Ross Gittens is mutinying in the SMH today.
Twiggy says “must change the Government” and has also suggested raising the GST to fill the requirements for covering the goodies that the RSPT was to provide. Is this Marn on the move?
Twiggy says “must change the Government” and has also suggested raising the GST to fill the requirements for covering the goodies that the RSPT was to provide. Is this Marn on the move?
If Conroy is involved, it’s notable that he waited till just after his big coup with Telstra and the NBN was announced. If the move had happened last week (assuming it would have been successful), then he would have missed out on making his big announcement.
If Conroy is involved, it’s notable that he waited till just after his big coup with Telstra and the NBN was announced. If the move had happened last week (assuming it would have been successful), then he would have missed out on making his big announcement.
It’s time that we found out the names of the people at Their ABC who are responsible for making up this crap.
It’s time that we found out the names of the people at Their ABC who are responsible for making up this crap.
This tweet from David Speers;
David_Speers
it’s up to Gillard now. if she wants it looks like job is hers
This tweet from David Speers;
David_Speers
it’s up to Gillard now. if she wants it looks like job is hers
Update: Heather Ewart on the 7.30 Report claimed that meetings were taking place between elements of the NSW and Victorian Right, and Mark Arbib is said to have defected from Rudd. She reported that Gillard is meeting with Rudd, but of course, Gillard may be meeting with Rudd to quash the unchallenge. Or not.
Update: Heather Ewart on the 7.30 Report claimed that meetings were taking place between elements of the NSW and Victorian Right, and Mark Arbib is said to have defected from Rudd. She reported that Gillard is meeting with Rudd, but of course, Gillard may be meeting with Rudd to quash the unchallenge. Or not.
Heather Ewart told Kerry O’B that the serious discussions are occurring in the ALP Right.
She claimed that Mark Arbib has today moved away from supporting Kevin, and that Julia has gone to Kevin’s office for a bit of a chat.
Heather Ewart told Kerry O’B that the serious discussions are occurring in the ALP Right.
She claimed that Mark Arbib has today moved away from supporting Kevin, and that Julia has gone to Kevin’s office for a bit of a chat.
Yer always one step ahead, Mark !!
Yer always one step ahead, Mark !!
@29 – Crossed, Ambi.
I’d also assume Victorian right = Stephen Conroy.
@29 – Crossed, Ambi.
I’d also assume Victorian right = Stephen Conroy.
Chris Uhlmann is the shitstirrer and will come out of this without a skerrick of credibility {if he had any to start with].
Chris Uhlmann is the shitstirrer and will come out of this without a skerrick of credibility {if he had any to start with].
As robbo said:
Can’t believe that this is under consideration. Or maybe it’s the Liberal dirt unit in action.
As robbo said:
Can’t believe that this is under consideration. Or maybe it’s the Liberal dirt unit in action.
Haven’t seen any evidence that Tanner would gut the RSPT, or is involved in this so called spill. Gillard and Arbib were both behind the mothballing of the CPRS, so they may find favour with mining companies.
Haven’t seen any evidence that Tanner would gut the RSPT, or is involved in this so called spill. Gillard and Arbib were both behind the mothballing of the CPRS, so they may find favour with mining companies.
OK, so we are supposed to believe that the Victorian and SA Right are going to support Gillard to oust Rudd? The same right that a couple of weeks ago were the biggest obstacle to Julia ever getting the leadership? This looks more and more like fairyland stuff every minute.
OK, so we are supposed to believe that the Victorian and SA Right are going to support Gillard to oust Rudd? The same right that a couple of weeks ago were the biggest obstacle to Julia ever getting the leadership? This looks more and more like fairyland stuff every minute.
If this story were true, the ALP would deserve to lose office.
Fortunately, I suspect its bollocks – just some nasty factional destabilising, using a willing media thats absolutely dying to hear their own spill stories migth have some support where it matters.
Bet it has about 2 supporters of note in the party.
If this story were true, the ALP would deserve to lose office.
Fortunately, I suspect its bollocks – just some nasty factional destabilising, using a willing media thats absolutely dying to hear their own spill stories migth have some support where it matters.
Bet it has about 2 supporters of note in the party.
There is not such thing as a Victorian right. Right now they are split down the middle with one section in alliance with the Victorian left.
There is not such thing as a Victorian right. Right now they are split down the middle with one section in alliance with the Victorian left.
Update: Fairfax reports (at 7.39pm) that Gillard’s office has said “nothing has changed”.
Update: Fairfax reports (at 7.39pm) that Gillard’s office has said “nothing has changed”.
@19
That would have to be the most out-there strategy for winning an election that I’ve ever heard. The ALP is still in a winning position, a position that will probably improve as the election approaches and the possibility of an Abbott govt. has to be realistically considered and dismissed. I mean I could postulate that the whole thing is just a ruse to wrong foot the LNP, but who’d buy that for a dollar? IF there is any substance to it then it must be driven by personal animosity or avarice. The easiest and most plausible path to victor is to do nothing, high risk options like the one you outline should be greeted with polite nodding.
@19
That would have to be the most out-there strategy for winning an election that I’ve ever heard. The ALP is still in a winning position, a position that will probably improve as the election approaches and the possibility of an Abbott govt. has to be realistically considered and dismissed. I mean I could postulate that the whole thing is just a ruse to wrong foot the LNP, but who’d buy that for a dollar? IF there is any substance to it then it must be driven by personal animosity or avarice. The easiest and most plausible path to victor is to do nothing, high risk options like the one you outline should be greeted with polite nodding.
If this turns out to be one of Uhlmanns wet dreams whatever credibility the ABC had left will be decimated.Patrickb @ 23 is correct, never before in my lifetime have I experienced a media campaign such as the one being waged against the elected Govt.(and I’m no spring chicken) and being led by no less than the National broadcaster. It’s a bloody disgrace.
If this turns out to be one of Uhlmanns wet dreams whatever credibility the ABC had left will be decimated.Patrickb @ 23 is correct, never before in my lifetime have I experienced a media campaign such as the one being waged against the elected Govt.(and I’m no spring chicken) and being led by no less than the National broadcaster. It’s a bloody disgrace.
add me to the list of complete unbelievers that this is even under consideration. madness.
OTOH, Stan McChrystal might be looking for a group over whom to make clear leadership decisions by breakfast time tomorrow. And he’s not too far away at present. Bonus points: thorough experience dealing with warring factions.
add me to the list of complete unbelievers that this is even under consideration. madness.
OTOH, Stan McChrystal might be looking for a group over whom to make clear leadership decisions by breakfast time tomorrow. And he’s not too far away at present. Bonus points: thorough experience dealing with warring factions.
I hope it is Conroy, it’d be a great opportunity to roll him.
I hope it is Conroy, it’d be a great opportunity to roll him.
I think the hard men have decided that Rudd has lost the lower middle classes in the outer suburbs and regions, just as Keating lost them. And once they turn against you, they turn against you with interest. I suppose they have private polling to support this view.
But not just that, Rudd Is haemorrhaging votes on his left to the Greens.
Enter Gillard. She puts an ETS back on the table to win back the votes Labor had lost to it’s left, and takes the mining tax off the table to win back votes on the right. Most of all, she is the unRudd.
It’s a huge gamble that will either see Labor returned or completely routed.
Will Gillard tap Rudd on the shoulder? I think she will. It’s her opportunity. There might not be another.
I think the hard men have decided that Rudd has lost the lower middle classes in the outer suburbs and regions, just as Keating lost them. And once they turn against you, they turn against you with interest. I suppose they have private polling to support this view.
But not just that, Rudd Is haemorrhaging votes on his left to the Greens.
Enter Gillard. She puts an ETS back on the table to win back the votes Labor had lost to it’s left, and takes the mining tax off the table to win back votes on the right. Most of all, she is the unRudd.
It’s a huge gamble that will either see Labor returned or completely routed.
Will Gillard tap Rudd on the shoulder? I think she will. It’s her opportunity. There might not be another.
Now Kevin Rudd has to decide whether to keep Arbib, Conroy, and Marn as ministers. They have all done a poor job as ministers, so it would be good to see them go.
Now Kevin Rudd has to decide whether to keep Arbib, Conroy, and Marn as ministers. They have all done a poor job as ministers, so it would be good to see them go.
Ho hum. Will wait for Lateline and ABC TV breakfast to see what really is happening. Sad one doesn’t immeduiately believe it because it comes from the ABC.
OTOH, if Rudd cancels his trip to Canada … (Thew really smart operatives would’ve done whatMenzies enemies did to him in 1940. Organised while he was o/s then rolled him when he got back.)
Ho hum. Will wait for Lateline and ABC TV breakfast to see what really is happening. Sad one doesn’t immeduiately believe it because it comes from the ABC.
OTOH, if Rudd cancels his trip to Canada … (Thew really smart operatives would’ve done whatMenzies enemies did to him in 1940. Organised while he was o/s then rolled him when he got back.)
All Gillard has to do is make a clear statement that she is not challenging. Has she done this?
All Gillard has to do is make a clear statement that she is not challenging. Has she done this?
ridiculous
ridiculous
Sam, don’t know. The OO reports (which means its probably a lie) that Gillard is very pissed off at Rudd for distrusting her loyalty. Apparently he sent his spies round to her office check or something. ( OO inferring falsely of course that we have a mini James Bond as PM.) (Failed Macchiavelli more like it. A Prince who forgot what was in the book. He’d have to have read it.)
Sam, don’t know. The OO reports (which means its probably a lie) that Gillard is very pissed off at Rudd for distrusting her loyalty. Apparently he sent his spies round to her office check or something. ( OO inferring falsely of course that we have a mini James Bond as PM.) (Failed Macchiavelli more like it. A Prince who forgot what was in the book. He’d have to have read it.)
Sam #43,
I could be very wrong, but I believe it is now or never for Gillard.
Except for one snag, this creates a massive hole in the budget. Rudd is depending upon the new mining tax so much that he has included the income from it in his budget.
Sam #43,
I could be very wrong, but I believe it is now or never for Gillard.
Except for one snag, this creates a massive hole in the budget. Rudd is depending upon the new mining tax so much that he has included the income from it in his budget.
Looks like a whole lotta nothin’.
Get a grip, people.
Looks like a whole lotta nothin’.
Get a grip, people.
Gillard will spill KRudd become Australia’s first female PM drop the RSPT blaming it all on KRudd and lose the next election because Australians vote out governments not vote them in… And once again it will be up to the coalition to fix the economy… Any government that gives $900 out as part of a stimulus package should have been dumped on that day. Good bye KRudd and good riddens!
Gillard will spill KRudd become Australia’s first female PM drop the RSPT blaming it all on KRudd and lose the next election because Australians vote out governments not vote them in… And once again it will be up to the coalition to fix the economy… Any government that gives $900 out as part of a stimulus package should have been dumped on that day. Good bye KRudd and good riddens!
Paul, maybe he read the Chinese version… you know, the little red one? That’s why he’s taxing the miners, don’t you know…
Paul, maybe he read the Chinese version… you know, the little red one? That’s why he’s taxing the miners, don’t you know…
My gut feeling: There will not be a challenge. (But never say never)
If there IS nothing to the story, oh boy oh boyo boy will the ABC have a red face.
My gut feeling: There will not be a challenge. (But never say never)
If there IS nothing to the story, oh boy oh boyo boy will the ABC have a red face.
Speaking of snags SATP, there is no ‘hole in the budget’. Just a slight problem with the Forward Estimates. There is a difference!
Speaking of snags SATP, there is no ‘hole in the budget’. Just a slight problem with the Forward Estimates. There is a difference!
Here’s the link to the OO version mentioned in my previous comment.
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/rudd-faces-leadership-plot/story-e6frg6n6-1225883380877
Now remember, comrades, the right of the ALP, whether from NSW or Victoria can be very very stupid. Think most of us are going through the first stage of getting bad news, Denial. If it turns out to be true, (and as much as I’d like to see Gillard as leader of the Labor Party and our next PM I hope it isn’t because its political idiocy) anger, acceptance and resignation.
Here’s the link to the OO version mentioned in my previous comment.
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/rudd-faces-leadership-plot/story-e6frg6n6-1225883380877
Now remember, comrades, the right of the ALP, whether from NSW or Victoria can be very very stupid. Think most of us are going through the first stage of getting bad news, Denial. If it turns out to be true, (and as much as I’d like to see Gillard as leader of the Labor Party and our next PM I hope it isn’t because its political idiocy) anger, acceptance and resignation.
This is the lower part if the copy from the ABC website, it reds like a strategy document for would be coup plotters. Definitely NOT news:
“Although Mr Rudd looks likely to survive the challenge, news of the attempted coup will undoubtedly weaken him.
It is understood that the only thing holding the Prime Minister up is that his deputy refuses to join in a bid to bring him down.
A series of bad poll results have seen the ALP’s primary vote tracking as low as 33 per cent.
The polls dived after a series of policy bungles and backflips made by the Government, including shelving the emissions trading scheme.
Any serious talk of a challenge is the last thing Mr Rudd needs as the Government prepares for the election.
However, if MPs want to act they will have to do so quickly.
Tomorrow will be the last sitting day before Federal Parliament breaks over winter.
This means that if a challenge was to be made against Mr Rudd to install Ms Gillard before the next election, it would have to be done tomorrow before MPs leave to go back to their electorate.
Earlier today it was revealed that the Prime Minister’s chief of staff, Alistair Jordan, had been contacting Labor MPs to discuss the Government’s performance.”
This is the lower part if the copy from the ABC website, it reds like a strategy document for would be coup plotters. Definitely NOT news:
“Although Mr Rudd looks likely to survive the challenge, news of the attempted coup will undoubtedly weaken him.
It is understood that the only thing holding the Prime Minister up is that his deputy refuses to join in a bid to bring him down.
A series of bad poll results have seen the ALP’s primary vote tracking as low as 33 per cent.
The polls dived after a series of policy bungles and backflips made by the Government, including shelving the emissions trading scheme.
Any serious talk of a challenge is the last thing Mr Rudd needs as the Government prepares for the election.
However, if MPs want to act they will have to do so quickly.
Tomorrow will be the last sitting day before Federal Parliament breaks over winter.
This means that if a challenge was to be made against Mr Rudd to install Ms Gillard before the next election, it would have to be done tomorrow before MPs leave to go back to their electorate.
Earlier today it was revealed that the Prime Minister’s chief of staff, Alistair Jordan, had been contacting Labor MPs to discuss the Government’s performance.”
There are three ways the media could go with this now.
1. Boil the frog. Day after day after day just talk up the leadership challenge. Abbot now has his narrative. “A vote for Rudd is a vote for Gillard as PM. Mr Speaker, Mr Speaker. I ask on behalf of the Australian people. For once will Mr Rudd tell the truth and let us know when he’s handing over?”
2. Media coup. Just declare that there was a challenge and Gillard won. And keep saying it. If Rudd or Gillard or anyone else declares a press conference stating that Rudd is still PM just report it as a tearful concession speech.
3. The big one. The Blakes 7 way of burying political opponents stone dead. It risks opening youself up to defamtion and libel charges…but hey…someone on one of the other threads risked it in a way. And I once saw someone try it on the Greens about 8 years ago. But you would really need the media onside for a lie of that magnitude.
There are three ways the media could go with this now.
1. Boil the frog. Day after day after day just talk up the leadership challenge. Abbot now has his narrative. “A vote for Rudd is a vote for Gillard as PM. Mr Speaker, Mr Speaker. I ask on behalf of the Australian people. For once will Mr Rudd tell the truth and let us know when he’s handing over?”
2. Media coup. Just declare that there was a challenge and Gillard won. And keep saying it. If Rudd or Gillard or anyone else declares a press conference stating that Rudd is still PM just report it as a tearful concession speech.
3. The big one. The Blakes 7 way of burying political opponents stone dead. It risks opening youself up to defamtion and libel charges…but hey…someone on one of the other threads risked it in a way. And I once saw someone try it on the Greens about 8 years ago. But you would really need the media onside for a lie of that magnitude.
Patrickb @ 55,
You mean they put it in writing?! [Falls off chair laughing.]
Nothing to worry about Lp-ers, this can’t be serious. No wonder Gillard doesn’t want to have anything to do with it.
The historians are going to have a field day when they get to these goons personal papers in the National Library in 30 years time/ (Assuming said plotters haven’t deleted all their e-mails.)
Patrickb @ 55,
You mean they put it in writing?! [Falls off chair laughing.]
Nothing to worry about Lp-ers, this can’t be serious. No wonder Gillard doesn’t want to have anything to do with it.
The historians are going to have a field day when they get to these goons personal papers in the National Library in 30 years time/ (Assuming said plotters haven’t deleted all their e-mails.)
I saw a training device ad today that would be perfect for these journalists.
It was held in either or both hands and replaced the need to jerk for arm exercise.
I saw a training device ad today that would be perfect for these journalists.
It was held in either or both hands and replaced the need to jerk for arm exercise.
I also find this difficult to believe.
What would the right like to replace Rudd with? (I understand Gillard is of the left so a faction of the right rolling another faction of the right – am I getting this right?)
I also find this difficult to believe.
What would the right like to replace Rudd with? (I understand Gillard is of the left so a faction of the right rolling another faction of the right – am I getting this right?)
Paul Burns @ 57
Sorry, I’m at a loss to understand “Blakes 7 way of burying political opponents stone dead”
Please explain
Paul Burns @ 57
Sorry, I’m at a loss to understand “Blakes 7 way of burying political opponents stone dead”
Please explain
Based on my observations from the Twitterverse, this is clearly a conspiracy dreamed up by rival TV networks to drag political junkies away from Masterchef.
Based on my observations from the Twitterverse, this is clearly a conspiracy dreamed up by rival TV networks to drag political junkies away from Masterchef.
Update: There’s very little news among all the noise. Bill Shorten is said to be one of those orchestrating the unchallenge, and the AWU has reportedly withdrawn its support for Rudd.
Julia Gillard, Wayne Swan, Anthony Albanese and John Faulkner are reported to be in Kevin Rudd’s office.
It’s also been reported that Julia Gillard is not challenging.
This micro-event, it would seem, has been brought to you by the genius “strategists” who talked Rudd into dropping the ETS in the first place, setting in train his plunge in the polls. The NSW Right, as I’ve said before, knows no other response to bad focus groups than to bring on a leadership challenge. Political courage and leadership is unknown among the apparatchiks and Sussex Street types.
And we’ve also had an unprecedented campaign against the PM from the media and the mining industry. While I’d like to see Gillard become PM, the Labor Party would be insane to dump Rudd now, and nor should they.
This will be highly damaging, coming as it does just at the point when it appeared that things could be turned around for the government. If I were Julia Gillard, I’d urge Rudd to convene a caucus meeting tomorrow morning, and personally move a confidence motion in his leadership. And heads should roll in the ALP. Soon.
Update: There’s very little news among all the noise. Bill Shorten is said to be one of those orchestrating the unchallenge, and the AWU has reportedly withdrawn its support for Rudd.
Julia Gillard, Wayne Swan, Anthony Albanese and John Faulkner are reported to be in Kevin Rudd’s office.
It’s also been reported that Julia Gillard is not challenging.
This micro-event, it would seem, has been brought to you by the genius “strategists” who talked Rudd into dropping the ETS in the first place, setting in train his plunge in the polls. The NSW Right, as I’ve said before, knows no other response to bad focus groups than to bring on a leadership challenge. Political courage and leadership is unknown among the apparatchiks and Sussex Street types.
And we’ve also had an unprecedented campaign against the PM from the media and the mining industry. While I’d like to see Gillard become PM, the Labor Party would be insane to dump Rudd now, and nor should they.
This will be highly damaging, coming as it does just at the point when it appeared that things could be turned around for the government. If I were Julia Gillard, I’d urge Rudd to convene a caucus meeting tomorrow morning, and personally move a confidence motion in his leadership. And heads should roll in the ALP. Soon.
Wasn’t this going to be administration that left factional fighting behind?
Wasn’t this going to be administration that left factional fighting behind?
Out-fucking-rageous. I thought I couldn’t be any more cynical about Australian media. Disgusting.
Out-fucking-rageous. I thought I couldn’t be any more cynical about Australian media. Disgusting.
If Kevin Rudd keeps the leadership, there’s going to be the purge of the century.
If Kevin Rudd keeps the leadership, there’s going to be the purge of the century.
murph, I think the problem is that they did, and so now the media have nothing to talk about so they’re making up their own factional fighting.
murph, I think the problem is that they did, and so now the media have nothing to talk about so they’re making up their own factional fighting.
” And heads should roll in the ALP. Soon.”
Yep: firing squad at dawn.
If it is the NSW ALP right, no one will even claim the bodies.
I’m serious – who are you clowns? The same numnuts who have screwed NSW ALP for a next decade? Aided by the VIC brains-trust that brought us Fielding – you clowns are walking disaster area.
” And heads should roll in the ALP. Soon.”
Yep: firing squad at dawn.
If it is the NSW ALP right, no one will even claim the bodies.
I’m serious – who are you clowns? The same numnuts who have screwed NSW ALP for a next decade? Aided by the VIC brains-trust that brought us Fielding – you clowns are walking disaster area.
I was going to write that I couldn’t believe that the Labor Party would be so stupid as to fall into the trap of replacing Rudd with Gillard. Such a move would reinforce the impression that the government was in freefall panic mode, would give the new leader only a limited time frame in which to sell herself to the electorate and would almost certainly ensure the government went into an election campaign battered and bruised
Then I remembered that this is the same party that elected Latham over Beazley in 2003 and, in doing so, consigned the party to another term in opposition while allowing Howard to run roughshod over workers rights with WorkChoices. And the same party that elected Simon Crean to the leadership unopposed when it was clearly obvious to Blind Freddy that he was unelectable. If this is actually happening -and is not more of the stupid media drivel we’ve been getting from certain quarters with a hidden agenda over the past few weeks -than the ALP truly has a death wish.
I was going to write that I couldn’t believe that the Labor Party would be so stupid as to fall into the trap of replacing Rudd with Gillard. Such a move would reinforce the impression that the government was in freefall panic mode, would give the new leader only a limited time frame in which to sell herself to the electorate and would almost certainly ensure the government went into an election campaign battered and bruised
Then I remembered that this is the same party that elected Latham over Beazley in 2003 and, in doing so, consigned the party to another term in opposition while allowing Howard to run roughshod over workers rights with WorkChoices. And the same party that elected Simon Crean to the leadership unopposed when it was clearly obvious to Blind Freddy that he was unelectable. If this is actually happening -and is not more of the stupid media drivel we’ve been getting from certain quarters with a hidden agenda over the past few weeks -than the ALP truly has a death wish.
Mark, that’s a shame, I thought Shorten had more sense than to be involved in this fucking nonsense. Agreed that Rudd needs to break out riot cannon asap.
Mark, that’s a shame, I thought Shorten had more sense than to be involved in this fucking nonsense. Agreed that Rudd needs to break out riot cannon asap.
Update: The Punch, which is live blogging what is still the unchallenge, reports that John Faulkner between Gillard and Rudd.
I’ll repeat what I said before: if the ALP dumps Rudd now, it will be the height of stupidity, and be a demonstration of nothing but craven cowardice in the face of a media/mining industry orchestrated campaign, at a time when the polls indicate, despite a low primary vote, the ALP is still odds on to win the election.
Update: The Punch, which is live blogging what is still the unchallenge, reports that John Faulkner between Gillard and Rudd.
I’ll repeat what I said before: if the ALP dumps Rudd now, it will be the height of stupidity, and be a demonstration of nothing but craven cowardice in the face of a media/mining industry orchestrated campaign, at a time when the polls indicate, despite a low primary vote, the ALP is still odds on to win the election.
If this is true, Labor has lost my vote forever.
If this is true, Labor has lost my vote forever.
Update: It’s being reported by a freelance journalist on Twitter that Rudd will soon be making a statement.
Update: It’s being reported by a freelance journalist on Twitter that Rudd will soon be making a statement.
http://www.entertonement.com/clips/tdssxdzmwr–Woody-laughing-Cartoon-Miscellaneous-Woody-Woodpecker-The-Woody-Woodpecker-Show
http://www.entertonement.com/clips/tdssxdzmwr–Woody-laughing-Cartoon-Miscellaneous-Woody-Woodpecker-The-Woody-Woodpecker-Show
Reading the Punch, still remarkably light on facts. Lots of great quotes from other journalists, though.
Reading the Punch, still remarkably light on facts. Lots of great quotes from other journalists, though.
“And we’ve also had an unprecedented campaign against the PM from the media and the mining industry.”
This puts the wrong spin on things, I think (although clearly the ALP’s hopeless bumbling on the RSPT is relevant to the backroom boys’ decision making). The mining industry campaign is not against Kevin Rudd as such, but against an ALP government which is making certain policy proposals. Kevin Rudd is at the receiving end only in his capacity as the leader of that government. Swan is getting it in equal measure. If Gillard is elevated to PM, and persists with the RSPT (in a form objectionable to miners) she too will be in the frame. The mining indutry does not particularly care who is PM.
BBB
“And we’ve also had an unprecedented campaign against the PM from the media and the mining industry.”
This puts the wrong spin on things, I think (although clearly the ALP’s hopeless bumbling on the RSPT is relevant to the backroom boys’ decision making). The mining industry campaign is not against Kevin Rudd as such, but against an ALP government which is making certain policy proposals. Kevin Rudd is at the receiving end only in his capacity as the leader of that government. Swan is getting it in equal measure. If Gillard is elevated to PM, and persists with the RSPT (in a form objectionable to miners) she too will be in the frame. The mining indutry does not particularly care who is PM.
BBB
Lefty – you say that as though you expect to find Sussex St machinists commenting on LP!!
Lefty – you say that as though you expect to find Sussex St machinists commenting on LP!!
@72 – yep!
@73 – BBB, but their only realistic option is to blast Rudd out, since it’s impossible for him to backflip on the RSPT.
@72 – yep!
@73 – BBB, but their only realistic option is to blast Rudd out, since it’s impossible for him to backflip on the RSPT.
LO – I certainly hope they are reading it.
Hear that hollow ring as I smack your empty heads together, Sussex St? It tolls for thee: move on Rudd now, and the govt will lose office.
Its really that simple.
LO – I certainly hope they are reading it.
Hear that hollow ring as I smack your empty heads together, Sussex St? It tolls for thee: move on Rudd now, and the govt will lose office.
Its really that simple.
I know it’s easy to get all, “it was the best of times, it was the blurst of times”, but for my tender 29 years, this really does feel like a new low to me.
I know it’s easy to get all, “it was the best of times, it was the blurst of times”, but for my tender 29 years, this really does feel like a new low to me.
Btw – a month or so ago I was talking to a mate who has a bit of influence within the SA Right and he claimed that dissatisfaction with Rudd had reached such a high level that there was talk of getting behind Gillard in any leadership spill. Don’t underestimate how unpopular Rudd is within the party at the moment. If he stays, it will be because cooler heads realise that now is not the time to replace him. It won’t be a vote of confidence. As for whether heads will role, it isn’t clear that Rudd has enough influence any more to force people out. His leadership authority is shot.
Btw – a month or so ago I was talking to a mate who has a bit of influence within the SA Right and he claimed that dissatisfaction with Rudd had reached such a high level that there was talk of getting behind Gillard in any leadership spill. Don’t underestimate how unpopular Rudd is within the party at the moment. If he stays, it will be because cooler heads realise that now is not the time to replace him. It won’t be a vote of confidence. As for whether heads will role, it isn’t clear that Rudd has enough influence any more to force people out. His leadership authority is shot.
Not really Mark. Rudd is already half-way to a backflip. He has been positioning himself for that for weeks, with all this absurd talk about the 40% headline rate (read: the number the punters will see) being untouchable whilst all manner of tinkering elsewhere within the RSPT proposal is permitted.
Agree re the ALP’s apparent cowardice. If they go through with this, they’ll have proved that they simply do not have the stomach for government at the Federal level.
BBB
Not really Mark. Rudd is already half-way to a backflip. He has been positioning himself for that for weeks, with all this absurd talk about the 40% headline rate (read: the number the punters will see) being untouchable whilst all manner of tinkering elsewhere within the RSPT proposal is permitted.
Agree re the ALP’s apparent cowardice. If they go through with this, they’ll have proved that they simply do not have the stomach for government at the Federal level.
BBB
Update: Rachel Hills says it all on Twitter:
Update: Rachel Hills says it all on Twitter:
@79 – It doesn’t look like the mining industry are interested in what Rudd has to offer, BBB:
http://larvatusprodeo.net/2010/06/23/rspt-mining-industry-to-eschew-negotiations-fight-to-the-death/
@79 – It doesn’t look like the mining industry are interested in what Rudd has to offer, BBB:
http://larvatusprodeo.net/2010/06/23/rspt-mining-industry-to-eschew-negotiations-fight-to-the-death/
If this is true the so-called hard men blink pretty easily. Agree that it seems the same whose cowardly strategies have got us here are the ones cutting their losses. Not so much rats as mice.
If this is true the so-called hard men blink pretty easily. Agree that it seems the same whose cowardly strategies have got us here are the ones cutting their losses. Not so much rats as mice.
Channel 10 news update – Paul Bongiorno breathlessly reported the following: 4(!!!) MPs went to Gillard, and spoke to her, apparently regarding a challenge, and she told them to f*** off.
Channel 10 news update – Paul Bongiorno breathlessly reported the following: 4(!!!) MPs went to Gillard, and spoke to her, apparently regarding a challenge, and she told them to f*** off.
There are absolutely no quotes from members of the government in any of this. It’s a complete beat-up.
There are absolutely no quotes from members of the government in any of this. It’s a complete beat-up.
I’d be interested to see how bad the polls for the Howard Govt were (and for how long) during 2007, before a “hard man” in that Govt blinked and suggested that chaps might like to consider what his ummm future ummmm might be.
I’d be interested to see how bad the polls for the Howard Govt were (and for how long) during 2007, before a “hard man” in that Govt blinked and suggested that chaps might like to consider what his ummm future ummmm might be.
LO – spot on. There are a lot of people around here who are in denial about Rudd’s loss of popularity within the ALP and amongst the electorate more broadly. They can’t understand it in terms of actual decisions made by the government, or in terms of Rudd’s recently acquired political ineptness, so they explain it in terms of their own cynicism and through fantasies about the influence of The Australian and the ABC. Witness, for example, the various attacks on the press for making all of this up (!)
BBB
LO – spot on. There are a lot of people around here who are in denial about Rudd’s loss of popularity within the ALP and amongst the electorate more broadly. They can’t understand it in terms of actual decisions made by the government, or in terms of Rudd’s recently acquired political ineptness, so they explain it in terms of their own cynicism and through fantasies about the influence of The Australian and the ABC. Witness, for example, the various attacks on the press for making all of this up (!)
BBB
Come on MSM – pictures of two ministers entering the PMs office can be taken every 2nd day, and twice on Mondays. You appeara to have literally nothing.
PUT UP – OR SHUT UP.
The last shards of YOUR credibility are at stake here, ABC.
Come on MSM – pictures of two ministers entering the PMs office can be taken every 2nd day, and twice on Mondays. You appeara to have literally nothing.
PUT UP – OR SHUT UP.
The last shards of YOUR credibility are at stake here, ABC.
- from “The Age” online, posted at 9.35pm
“It was understood Ms Gillard was reluctant to have a messy challenge and it is understood there were efforts being made to push Mr Rudd to stand down.
The push to oust Mr Rudd was led by the Victorian senator David Feeney, the Victorian MP Bill Shorten, and the South Australian senator Don Farrell, all right-wing heavyweights.”
- from “The Age” online, posted at 9.35pm
“It was understood Ms Gillard was reluctant to have a messy challenge and it is understood there were efforts being made to push Mr Rudd to stand down.
The push to oust Mr Rudd was led by the Victorian senator David Feeney, the Victorian MP Bill Shorten, and the South Australian senator Don Farrell, all right-wing heavyweights.”
I think a lot of the hard men in the ALP would kak themselves if Gillard told them to fuck off. I hope she filmed it.
I think a lot of the hard men in the ALP would kak themselves if Gillard told them to fuck off. I hope she filmed it.
Laurie Oakes says that Rudd is gone and what is being discussed is the terms of the surrender.
The Sphere of Influence is rarely wrong on these matters.
Laurie Oakes says that Rudd is gone and what is being discussed is the terms of the surrender.
The Sphere of Influence is rarely wrong on these matters.
It’s getting to the point where if the tealady were to bring Rudd his tea in the morning the media would report it as “fed up staff present Rudd with a hot ultimatum!”
It’s getting to the point where if the tealady were to bring Rudd his tea in the morning the media would report it as “fed up staff present Rudd with a hot ultimatum!”
You are being sarcastic, right, Sam?
You are being sarcastic, right, Sam?
You would have to think regardless of whether Rudd is forced out or not the damage has already been done. I have been a Labor voter all my life but I am finding it increasingly hard to justify voting for a complete rabble who don’t even seem to be able lead themselves let alone the country.
Rudd was always just a candidate of convienience as far as the Gillard block of votes was concerned. The ALP seem more interested in their internal politics than actually governing the country.
You would have to think regardless of whether Rudd is forced out or not the damage has already been done. I have been a Labor voter all my life but I am finding it increasingly hard to justify voting for a complete rabble who don’t even seem to be able lead themselves let alone the country.
Rudd was always just a candidate of convienience as far as the Gillard block of votes was concerned. The ALP seem more interested in their internal politics than actually governing the country.
Hold the front page: people who work together in office at same time.
Hold the front page: people who work together in office at same time.
How many Godwin Greechs are there still hiding out? Quite a few at the ABC no doubt. Rudd’s big mistake was not to purge the public service when he got in.
How many Godwin Greechs are there still hiding out? Quite a few at the ABC no doubt. Rudd’s big mistake was not to purge the public service when he got in.
Update: The Drum editor Jonathan Green on Twitter:
Update: The Drum editor Jonathan Green on Twitter:
Political stupidity aside, I’m looking forward to a Gillard premiership. If I had to choose between, on the one hand, a formerly left-wing ALP lifer who has been disciplined by government, who oozes political nous and who can mix it with the best at the dispatch box and, on the other hand, an unreformed Catholic Tory of limited talent, intellectual or otherwise, I’d pick the former any day of the week.
BBB
Political stupidity aside, I’m looking forward to a Gillard premiership. If I had to choose between, on the one hand, a formerly left-wing ALP lifer who has been disciplined by government, who oozes political nous and who can mix it with the best at the dispatch box and, on the other hand, an unreformed Catholic Tory of limited talent, intellectual or otherwise, I’d pick the former any day of the week.
BBB
Likewise LO @ 78.
I was talking to someone who would know something, just after the ‘clear the decks’ week and he said Gillard was up…. but post the election.
“Can’t be managed”, was the term used in relation to Kevvie. And I don’t this meant in terms of just messaging etc but in terms of all stories about the inner workings of Rudd’s office that have popped up.
I wasn’t surprised then to read all the Gillard challenge stories magically appearing in the MSM, if Kevvie’s days were already being numbered by many inside. And tonight is the result of things getting to stage 1.
Before an election however with polling nowhere near slashing wrists stage is just bloody daft, and again like LO, I expect cooler heads will prevail and none will roll. And am hoping, I spose too.
But it’s a bit of blame circle really – and that’s what they should *all* be acknowledging together…ie. Rudd himself, Rudd’s office, the ‘clear the deck’ strategists, the too-small inner clique, reactive policies, not defending their record blah, blah blah.
Likewise LO @ 78.
I was talking to someone who would know something, just after the ‘clear the decks’ week and he said Gillard was up…. but post the election.
“Can’t be managed”, was the term used in relation to Kevvie. And I don’t this meant in terms of just messaging etc but in terms of all stories about the inner workings of Rudd’s office that have popped up.
I wasn’t surprised then to read all the Gillard challenge stories magically appearing in the MSM, if Kevvie’s days were already being numbered by many inside. And tonight is the result of things getting to stage 1.
Before an election however with polling nowhere near slashing wrists stage is just bloody daft, and again like LO, I expect cooler heads will prevail and none will roll. And am hoping, I spose too.
But it’s a bit of blame circle really – and that’s what they should *all* be acknowledging together…ie. Rudd himself, Rudd’s office, the ‘clear the deck’ strategists, the too-small inner clique, reactive policies, not defending their record blah, blah blah.
Oh noes BBB. You so totally owned us on that line! I’m off to weep into my latte!
Oh noes BBB. You so totally owned us on that line! I’m off to weep into my latte!
Is this meant to be a cheap shot at Rudd? Or Abbott? (It fits Rudd better)
Is this meant to be a cheap shot at Rudd? Or Abbott? (It fits Rudd better)
“an unreformed Catholic Tory of limited talent, intellectual or otherwise”
This describes half the Cabinet.
“an unreformed Catholic Tory of limited talent, intellectual or otherwise”
This describes half the Cabinet.
Banner on ABC News site says Rudd is gone according to Uhlmann.
The Australian version of Coreexit is the P.M. of Australia!
The Australian version of Coreexit is the P.M. of Australia!
@97 – Lefty E, if nothing was going on, we’d have had a press statement or media appearance by now, if only to close down the 24/7 Sky News commentating.
@97 – Lefty E, if nothing was going on, we’d have had a press statement or media appearance by now, if only to close down the 24/7 Sky News commentating.
Hang on. I take my smugness back.
Looks like the media is going with my option 2. Just declare Gillard the winner.
Hang on. I take my smugness back.
Looks like the media is going with my option 2. Just declare Gillard the winner.
This person claims Rudd has agreed to stand down – http://twitter.com/SeraphimSP/status/16844889184
just madness if true.
This person claims Rudd has agreed to stand down – http://twitter.com/SeraphimSP/status/16844889184
just madness if true.
I’m of the belief the Party has a better chance of winning the election with Gillard as leader.
I’m of the belief the Party has a better chance of winning the election with Gillard as leader.
Update: Sky News is reporting Kevin Rudd will be giving a press conference in the next 5 to 10 minutes.
Update: Sky News is reporting Kevin Rudd will be giving a press conference in the next 5 to 10 minutes.
@89
“There are a lot of people around here who are in denial about Rudd’s loss of popularity within the ALP and amongst the electorate more broadly.”
What you don’t get is that a lot of us don’t give a stuff about popularity. In this contest the govts. greatest asset is Tony Abbott. The bizarreness of the opposition leader is plain to anyone with half a brain and he’s backed by a collection of complete arsehats (Joyce, Bishops (x2), Tuckey). To be worried to the point that a leadership challenge actually gets some legs is just plain dumb. That’s what “we” don’t like BBB, stupidity.
@89
“There are a lot of people around here who are in denial about Rudd’s loss of popularity within the ALP and amongst the electorate more broadly.”
What you don’t get is that a lot of us don’t give a stuff about popularity. In this contest the govts. greatest asset is Tony Abbott. The bizarreness of the opposition leader is plain to anyone with half a brain and he’s backed by a collection of complete arsehats (Joyce, Bishops (x2), Tuckey). To be worried to the point that a leadership challenge actually gets some legs is just plain dumb. That’s what “we” don’t like BBB, stupidity.
Update: Lots of Tweets claiming that Rudd is about to quit.
Update: Lots of Tweets claiming that Rudd is about to quit.
The election will be on 24 July. Put it in your diaries.
The election will be on 24 July. Put it in your diaries.
“Is this meant to be a cheap shot at Rudd? Or Abbott? (It fits Rudd better)”
FFS Steve, don’t ruin it.
BBB
“Is this meant to be a cheap shot at Rudd? Or Abbott? (It fits Rudd better)”
FFS Steve, don’t ruin it.
BBB
Holy fuck. Abbott just won the election.
(I’ll vote for Gillard but you know what? The media will just declare Tones the winner. In fact let’s just have the election tomorrow.)
Holy fuck. Abbott just won the election.
(I’ll vote for Gillard but you know what? The media will just declare Tones the winner. In fact let’s just have the election tomorrow.)
Skynews.com.au is down due to too much traffic!
Skynews.com.au is down due to too much traffic!
Update: Kevin Rudd’s press conference will be live on ABC1 within the next few minutes.
Update: Kevin Rudd’s press conference will be live on ABC1 within the next few minutes.
2 points:
– unprecedented media campaign . . . yeah, right. The anti-Howard campaign was relentless for years.
- haven’t had this much fun since the last Gulf War watching Bathists get smoked.
2 points:
– unprecedented media campaign . . . yeah, right. The anti-Howard campaign was relentless for years.
- haven’t had this much fun since the last Gulf War watching Bathists get smoked.
Jesus fucking christ…. I’m on tenterhooks here.
Jesus fucking christ…. I’m on tenterhooks here.
You know the worst bit? I’m going to have to go to Tim Blair and Andrew Bolt’s blogs tomorrow and read through every single gloaty post. And just take it.
At least we’ll have a female PM for a couple of months.
Rudd, you were a good man. Too good maybe.
You know the worst bit? I’m going to have to go to Tim Blair and Andrew Bolt’s blogs tomorrow and read through every single gloaty post. And just take it.
At least we’ll have a female PM for a couple of months.
Rudd, you were a good man. Too good maybe.
I bet the Liberals are all stroking their white cats in anticipatory glee.
I bet the Liberals are all stroking their white cats in anticipatory glee.
ABC1 is live now. No Rudd yet
ABC1 is live now. No Rudd yet
Bugger that – I want to see what Tilda Swinton’s move is like
According to the ABC:
According to the ABC:
Leadership spill. wow.
Leadership spill. wow.
sorry movie, moveee, mooo-V
Update: Rudd has convened caucus to meet at 9am. Gillard will be challenging. He is not standing down.
Update: Rudd has convened caucus to meet at 9am. Gillard will be challenging. He is not standing down.
Gillard == Rat
Gillard == Rat
There goes the “loyal deputy” description.
There goes the “loyal deputy” description.
Rudd sounds confident
Rudd sounds confident
Like I’ve written a few times … the clowns who have been running the show in NSW and Victoria for years cannot be somehow firewalled from federal affairs. F***ing morons whose aspirations start and finish with winning some petty conflict with factional rivals.
It’s interesting that both our major political parties have become almost entirely dysfunctional. Possibly quite dangerous also, at least potentially. Still, we’re Aussies and everything will turn out OK cos it always has before. Cling to the thought.
Like I’ve written a few times … the clowns who have been running the show in NSW and Victoria for years cannot be somehow firewalled from federal affairs. F***ing morons whose aspirations start and finish with winning some petty conflict with factional rivals.
It’s interesting that both our major political parties have become almost entirely dysfunctional. Possibly quite dangerous also, at least potentially. Still, we’re Aussies and everything will turn out OK cos it always has before. Cling to the thought.
Abbott laughing all the way to the Lodge.
Party that can’t govern itself can’t govern the country.
ALP’s new National Defence Initiative: circular firing squad.
Journos, your cheque from Rio Tinto is in the mail.
Abbott laughing all the way to the Lodge.
Party that can’t govern itself can’t govern the country.
ALP’s new National Defence Initiative: circular firing squad.
Journos, your cheque from Rio Tinto is in the mail.
Rudd will be lucky to get a vote in double figures.
Rudd will be lucky to get a vote in double figures.
Update: Rudd indicates he will be running against faction and union domination. He is also running against the NSW Right, indicating that if he wins he will not be retreating from the RSPT, or giving in to calls for a hardline on asylum seekers. He suggested forward movement on climate change.
Update: Rudd indicates he will be running against faction and union domination. He is also running against the NSW Right, indicating that if he wins he will not be retreating from the RSPT, or giving in to calls for a hardline on asylum seekers. He suggested forward movement on climate change.
This is a hilarious bit from the ABC website:
hahaha.
This is a hilarious bit from the ABC website:
hahaha.
So here we go, straight down the NSW right’s path to oblivion.
So here we go, straight down the NSW right’s path to oblivion.
I think it’s good that Rudd is going to fight, whatever Sam’s mail on the factional balance in the caucus. If they dump him tomorrow, the ALP don’t deserve government frankly. Gillard can rot in rat hell for this.
I think it’s good that Rudd is going to fight, whatever Sam’s mail on the factional balance in the caucus. If they dump him tomorrow, the ALP don’t deserve government frankly. Gillard can rot in rat hell for this.
This is the guy who was elected PM. Pity that he has not looked as statesman-like over the past 6 months as he has tonight. An impressive appearance. He spoke lucidly and with conviction. Bravo Kevin.
This is the guy who was elected PM. Pity that he has not looked as statesman-like over the past 6 months as he has tonight. An impressive appearance. He spoke lucidly and with conviction. Bravo Kevin.
“He suggested forward movement on climate change.”
“Too late”, she cried, waiving her wooden leg.
It was his backward movement that was the start of his undoing.
“He suggested forward movement on climate change.”
“Too late”, she cried, waiving her wooden leg.
It was his backward movement that was the start of his undoing.
First time I’ve seen Rudd look & act like he’s got a spine!
First time I’ve seen Rudd look & act like he’s got a spine!
This is awesome! Rudd wins the party falls. Gillard wins the party falls.
My wife just turned to me and said “Gillard’s a bitch. Still not voting Abbott. Nope. I’m voting informal now. That will show them.”
OK. Have to do the Catholic thing and read every single fucking victory post on the Tele blogs.
And yes Mercurius @130.
Snap.
This is awesome! Rudd wins the party falls. Gillard wins the party falls.
My wife just turned to me and said “Gillard’s a bitch. Still not voting Abbott. Nope. I’m voting informal now. That will show them.”
OK. Have to do the Catholic thing and read every single fucking victory post on the Tele blogs.
And yes Mercurius @130.
Snap.
I feel so lucky I just moved to a Federal seat that’s represented by an Independent who will hold it comfortably. Don’t have to give my vote to any of the other mongrels.
I feel so lucky I just moved to a Federal seat that’s represented by an Independent who will hold it comfortably. Don’t have to give my vote to any of the other mongrels.
Madness, electoral suicide. Gillard should be ashamed of herself. Who would look to the NSW right for anything?
Madness, electoral suicide. Gillard should be ashamed of herself. Who would look to the NSW right for anything?
Oh well- there it is. Theyve done a Nuthin Rees on him Interesting to see Rudd going back to his 2007 themes.
If he hangs on, a night of the long knives must follow. I want to see the Dead strewn all over Sussex St.
He’s got a point that we elected him, you know.
I frankly think Gillard will lose – too easy to paint her as a zombie of the NSW Right.
Idiots. Abbott’s the luckiest clown ever to walk in the big tent.
Oh well- there it is. Theyve done a Nuthin Rees on him Interesting to see Rudd going back to his 2007 themes.
If he hangs on, a night of the long knives must follow. I want to see the Dead strewn all over Sussex St.
He’s got a point that we elected him, you know.
I frankly think Gillard will lose – too easy to paint her as a zombie of the NSW Right.
Idiots. Abbott’s the luckiest clown ever to walk in the big tent.
So, all those political genius’s on this site who said that their won’t be a challenge are now going to acknowledge they are wrong.
Next – RSPT to go.
And just to reiterate – the ETS is a dead parrot.
So, all those political genius’s on this site who said that their won’t be a challenge are now going to acknowledge they are wrong.
Next – RSPT to go.
And just to reiterate – the ETS is a dead parrot.
Rudd’s time is up I’m afraid. This is bigger than the NSW right. They probably shouldn’t have done this now, but now we have to hope that Gillard wins convincingly tomorrow. Rudd and his office treated MPs, shadows, ministers, premiers, heck nearly everyone pretty badly over the past few years. His office was a sideshow. Nobody was going to move against him while he was popular, but now he is seen as terminal. Don’t write off Gillard’s chances at the election, assuming she wins tomorrow. She is a much better communicator than Rudd and has Abbott’s measure. She can also reconfigure elements of policy free of at least some of the baggage Rudd brings.
Rudd’s time is up I’m afraid. This is bigger than the NSW right. They probably shouldn’t have done this now, but now we have to hope that Gillard wins convincingly tomorrow. Rudd and his office treated MPs, shadows, ministers, premiers, heck nearly everyone pretty badly over the past few years. His office was a sideshow. Nobody was going to move against him while he was popular, but now he is seen as terminal. Don’t write off Gillard’s chances at the election, assuming she wins tomorrow. She is a much better communicator than Rudd and has Abbott’s measure. She can also reconfigure elements of policy free of at least some of the baggage Rudd brings.
I think his campaign speech at the press conference is rubbish – all spin. He may have the conviction but can’t communicate it. His talk of a move to the right and his not giving in to that shows he is being an equal and opposite force, not setting his own agenda – except for the RSPT, which is a biggie. The MSM and the NSW right – hard to tell which is worse
Faulkner and Tanner are the two systems thinkers in parliament – Rudd is focus on one thing at a time and inattention to the others. He has also been unable to maintain a political narrative while in government, instead communicating wonk (which should be below the surface, but there). I think these guys behind a good politician could be interesting.
I loved KR for defeating Howard. However, he has been a nightmare to work with or for, according to my sources. He has been seen by some as a total control freak who has little respect for others because (they allege) he has a “I’m the smartest person in the room complex” (they said the same thing of that political wannabe Peter Costello, too); what one makes of such bitchiness in a bitchy town…
That said, apparently Julia G has impressed all in the PS, according to those who know such things; apparently people like working for her.
She’ll flog Abbot and be a great PM.
I’ve been
I loved KR for defeating Howard. However, he has been a nightmare to work with or for, according to my sources. He has been seen by some as a total control freak who has little respect for others because (they allege) he has a “I’m the smartest person in the room complex” (they said the same thing of that political wannabe Peter Costello, too); what one makes of such bitchiness in a bitchy town…
That said, apparently Julia G has impressed all in the PS, according to those who know such things; apparently people like working for her.
She’ll flog Abbot and be a great PM.
I’ve been
“Who would look to the NSW right for anything?”
Damn straight. They destroyed the ALP’s standing in NSW, now they’re doing their best to screw Labor’s federal chances.
“Who would look to the NSW right for anything?”
Damn straight. They destroyed the ALP’s standing in NSW, now they’re doing their best to screw Labor’s federal chances.
centrebet seems to have closed betting on the federal election.
centrebet seems to have closed betting on the federal election.
Before anyone gets too weepy over Rudd, don’t forget he stalked Beazley, challenged him and beat him. Politics is adversarial.
I think PM Gillard should offer Rudd the job of Foreign Minister.
He’d probably be good at it.
And, yes, there is a precedent. When Billy Mcmahon defeated John Gorton, Gorton stayed in the Cabinet. (In fact he became Deputy Leader.)
Before anyone gets too weepy over Rudd, don’t forget he stalked Beazley, challenged him and beat him. Politics is adversarial.
I think PM Gillard should offer Rudd the job of Foreign Minister.
He’d probably be good at it.
And, yes, there is a precedent. When Billy Mcmahon defeated John Gorton, Gorton stayed in the Cabinet. (In fact he became Deputy Leader.)
LeftyE @ 145 – Gillard’s not from the right faction though is she?
And I withdraw comments I’ve made in the past about there being no way that the ALP would lose the next election. I didn’t count on them trying to lose it. Can we have Turnbull back as the liberal party leader just in case?
LeftyE @ 145 – Gillard’s not from the right faction though is she?
And I withdraw comments I’ve made in the past about there being no way that the ALP would lose the next election. I didn’t count on them trying to lose it. Can we have Turnbull back as the liberal party leader just in case?
Let this be a lesson plebs. Don’t fuck with the big end of town.
Now the real race is on. Who will make the better Workchoices Mk 2 package? Abbott or Gillard?
And yes Razor. I’ll be asking you for all thing truthiness from now on when Rupert Murdoch isn’t available.
Let this be a lesson plebs. Don’t fuck with the big end of town.
Now the real race is on. Who will make the better Workchoices Mk 2 package? Abbott or Gillard?
And yes Razor. I’ll be asking you for all thing truthiness from now on when Rupert Murdoch isn’t available.
Just got backfrom the airport and I’ve only skim read this and I just gotta say that, if true, its got to be the most stupid thing the ALP have done in yonks.
Bloody idiots.
And as for the media …..
Just got backfrom the airport and I’ve only skim read this and I just gotta say that, if true, its got to be the most stupid thing the ALP have done in yonks.
Bloody idiots.
And as for the media …..
Update: New thread here.
Update: New thread here.
the problem is the factional leaders. gillard risks being seen as a kenneally, a puppet of cynical backroom men who spend their time jumping from shadows of their own making. rudd actually looked presidential, for once, without the hollow men breathing down his neck.
the problem is the factional leaders. gillard risks being seen as a kenneally, a puppet of cynical backroom men who spend their time jumping from shadows of their own making. rudd actually looked presidential, for once, without the hollow men breathing down his neck.
As much as I dislike K.Rudd the party needed to show discipline and spine and stick with him to the next election. Instead with the first whiff of grapeshot panic has struck the ranks and they have blown their own foot off. Do they really deserve to stay in government? It is getting increasingly hard to argue yes.
As much as I dislike K.Rudd the party needed to show discipline and spine and stick with him to the next election. Instead with the first whiff of grapeshot panic has struck the ranks and they have blown their own foot off. Do they really deserve to stay in government? It is getting increasingly hard to argue yes.