Australians have defied the global trend of incumbent fatigue. It has rejected conservative coalition led by Peter Dutton widely perceived as aligning himself with the rhetoric, posture and tactics of “Trumpian” politics.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s Labour government has secured a commanding second term. Moreover, it has expanded its majority in parliament.
In the undercurrent of Australian election lay the global shadow of President Donald Trump. Dutton’s stances on immigration and climate policy as well as national identity and governance were not at all to the voters liking even as it reminded then of another man who wanted to include Canada in the list of US states.
Dutton’s campaign had a combative and polarizing approach bearing some resemblance to that of the Republican candidate in the US presidential elections. Deployment of such tactics may have promoted the thinking that those echoing Trump emerging victorious.
But it put off Australian voters. One does not deny or sees any need to do so Dutton casting himself as a strongman alternative to Albanese resonated with a narrow base. But it was toxic to the broader public.
Dutton’s style of campaigning had no takers among moderate and urban electorate with a preference for nuanced governance and stability. One would not be wide off the mark if it is contended that Australian election was more than a referendum on local governance.
It has put a brake on the direction of the global conservative movement. Nothing succeeds like success is an oft repeated saying.
Donald Trump is ensconced in the White House. His ideological.blue print has found currency in some quarters. But Australians rejected a model of leadership that many see as divisive. It is also marked out for its indifference to societal cohesion.
A line drawn in the Australian election results emerges. It has been stated in a message loud and clear that what is gaining traction elsewhere is unwelcome in Australia.
Labour ‘s game plan of a modest centrist policy platform let voters make a contrast. It was more than merely making a choice. Albanese presented a calm and emphatic alternative to the voters. There was no attempt to dazzle the electorate by sweeping reforms.
It was in contrast with the noise and uncertainty marking Dutton’s poll campaign which seemed to be a take on Trump seeking votes On the other hand, promise of affordable healthcare, fairer housing and action on climate characterizing Albanese’s campaign struck a familiar chord.
The outcome of Australian election ought to prompt soul searching among Conservatives and their political opponents. Emulating Trump.may energise core loyalists.
But the same cannot be said of centrists and independents valuing independence and inclusive governance. The Australian poll verdict is more than a political statement.
It is a cultural one too. It is a pointer that political mimicry sans cultural resonance can backfire. Dutton loding his seat is symbolic. It is an indication of widespread rejection of his person and policies.It is symbolic how deep rejection runs in an interconnected world. Substance has triumphed over spectacle
Policy has been preferred over personality. Australian election results has been shaped by global influence. Stability, decency and quiet power had been chosen over disruption and defiance. The quiet power of democratic resilence has prevailed.
