Voters Reassess Coalition Leadership

The second Saulwick Age Poll since Alexander Downer became Opposition Leader shows a subtle shift in voter opinions. Mr Downer maintains his lead as preferred prime minister, while Mr Keating recovers some support after the Liberal leadership change. The poll indicates a recalibration of voting intentions, with voters potentially returning to the two major parties, and a decrease in support for minor parties.

Key Takeaways:

• The Liberal-National parties saw an increase in support, commanding 49% of the electorate (up from 46%).
• Labor's support rose to 38% (from 33%), closing the gap with the coalition.
• Minor parties lost ground, with support down to 13%, a decrease from previous polls.
• Mr Downer's preferred prime minister rating rose to 44% (from 41%), while Mr Keating's increased to 36% (from 32%).
• 29% of voters approve of Mr Downer's performance as Opposition Leader, compared to 32% approving Mr Keating's performance as Prime Minister.
• Mr Downer's disapproval rating stands at 7%, while Mr Keating's is 36%.

Statistics:

• 49% of the electorate supports the Liberal-National parties (up from 46%).
• 38% of the electorate supports Labor (up from 33%).
• 13% of the electorate supports minor parties (down from previous polls).
• 44% of voters prefer Mr Downer as prime minister (up from 41%).
• 36% of voters prefer Mr Keating as prime minister (up from 32%).
• 7% of voters disapprove of Mr Downer's performance (down from 32%).
• 36% of voters disapprove of Mr Keating's performance.
• 33% of voters remain undecided on Mr Downer's performance ratings.

Sources:

• The Age
• Saulwick Age Poll