Analysis: Steven Miles the sole bright spot among Labor’s fortunes

Labor is facing a generational loss across Queensland that will turf 23 Labor MPs – including seven ministers – out of office, writes state political editor Hayden Johnson.

The more Queenslanders see of Steven Miles, the more they like him – but the concern now is whether Labor powerbrokers left his run too late.

Satisfaction with the Premier’s job is rising, but it’s not rising fast enough, according to the latest YouGov poll.

Concerning Labor is – while the focus mounts on Opposition Leader David Crisafulli’s plans for Queensland – his lead as preferred premier remains.

Optimistic Labor MPs will skim over the worsening two-party result and diminishing primary vote to find solace in the abilities of their leader.

It backs commentary within the government that people are beginning to question the detail and cost of Mr Crisafulli’s policies.

Labor MPs believe – as this column has indicated – the October 26 election will be won through hand-to-hand combat across 93 seats.

Premier Steven Miles with wife Kim at the State of Origin on Wednesday night. Picture: Annette Dew

Central Queensland appears to be a write-off for the government, with Water Minister Glenn Butcher tipped to be its designated survivor.

A uniform 10 per cent swing across the state would knock 23 Labor MPs – including seven ministers – out of office.

This would represent a generational loss for the state government, with Meaghan Scanlon losing Labor’s last stand in Gaven on the Gold Coast.

Mr Miles’s most loyal soldier, Energy Minister Mick de Brenni, would also lose his Springwood electorate.

In recovering ground as preferred premier, Mr Miles has shown he has a foot in the door of the election.

To jam it open, the government will go negative.

Treasurer Cameron Dick on Thursday stood next to posters outlining the “cuts” of a Crisafulli government to fund his promises.

It’s easier for Mr Dick, who just put the last two promises on the state credit card.

After all, what’s another billion dollars?