EXCLUSIVE: Election likely in 2022 as Libs seek ‘star candidates’

Описание: Sky News Political Editor Andrew Clennell has revealed that the federal election is likely to be held in 2022 due to a number of key Liberal preselection contests scheduled for later this year.

“With New South Wales a key target state for Scott Morrison as he seeks to win seats to offset possible losses elsewhere and get a larger majority, several key New South Wales federal Liberal preselections have been earmarked for late this year, as late as November, at a time people are speculating an election could be called,” Mr Clennell said.

“Those preselections held back until then include Gilmore, which Labor holds by 2.6 per cent, Greenway – 2.8 per cent, Eden Monaro, held by Labor's Kirsty McBain with a margin of 0.39 per cent after last year's by-election and Warringah, Tony Abbott's old seat held by Independent Zali Steggall.

“Those preselections won't always be easy processes either with Warringah set for a plebiscite vote.”

Mr Clennell suggested the possible reason for the delay is due to the prime minister's desire to get so-called star candidates.

“One of those being chased is Mike Baird to run in Warringah. The former NSW premier and aged care boss is seen as the only Liberal candidate who could beat Zali Steggall. And NSW Transport Minister Andrew Constance, after his aborted Eden-Monaro by-election bid is being touted as a candidate for Eden-Monaro or Gilmore.

“So the PM has left himself some wriggle room, saying that an election is due next year and he cannot say if political events would want to change that, perhaps him further losing his majority in the parliament.”