Jim SpearsElection In West Oz
September 7th 2008 16:51
Colin Barnett new Premier of WA?
Comeback Col was rabbit-like in his energy and the lad had a real hunger to succeed after the mistakes of his 2005 defeat. History has shown his resignation was a mistake but at the time the Liberals were only eight seats from power and members were understandably anxious and eager for a new era, even the “Sniffolofogus”, to begin.
Since the end of the ‘Sniffleupagus’ era Col’s four weeks of inspiring voters has seen a rise from 46% to 50% in the Two-Party preferred vote by election eve. This is one of the closest elections in Australian history; when counting ended Balcatta had Labor (6725) slightly ahead of the Liberals (6,626) with 15,932 votes counted out of 23,365 with 930 informals. Other districts with equally thin margins are Churchlands, Collie-Preston and Forrestfield.
An election this close could easily become legal fodder but realistically there will be an extended period of confused analysis and a hung-parliament. The Nationals with four seats will be powerbrokers and Alan Carpenter met with them today.
Alan Carpenter. (His last legs can't be seen)
Comeback Col’ will hope Federal connections will convince the Nationals to coalesce with W.A. Liberal like the big boys. Both parties are within striking distance of government while the Liberals’ 25 seats place them behind Labor (27) the federal connection might be the difference.
Negotiations could theoretically be in vain as counting is stalled around 77% for all districts and with wafers in many margins every vote counts. This historical first can be enjoyed in the week before a result is known; until then the negotiations and peacocking will provide ample entertainment.
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