One of the most curious footnotes to this extraordinary election where every seat and every vote countered, was the failure of the Liberal Party to win Bass.
The seat looked a certainty for the Liberals.
Labor’s Jodie Campbell had a less-than-stellar career as MHR; studded with the odd scandal.
The seat as ever was very finely poised. The Liberals had a star candidate, the type who does so well is such battles.
Steve Titmus had been a local TV celebrity for many years in northern Tasmania, bland and reassuring; the type who because of name recognition can be relied upon to win a large number of undecided and swinging votes.
Why did Titmus fail?
Having Eric Abetz in your corner doesn’t help, as Guy Barnett bitterly observed after his ejection: “I think there should be a wholesale review,” he said. “Senator Abetz is clearly a very influential powerbroker, he has significant influence within the party and he has to stand responsible for his decisions and actions, as do others in leadership within the party.” However Senator Eric Abetz says he is not to blame. ( ABC Online, here: Tas Senators trade blows over appalling performance )
But the main reason – as many northerners have pointed out – is that for several years Steve Titmus was the public face in numerous TV commercials for Gunns Ltd. Guy Barnett to lose Senate seat. Hallelujah! …..and Sex Party excited about the prospect of a Hung Parliament.
What Rick Pilkington reckons: HERE
