Daniel Andrews popularity falls as Victorians head to election booths
The Labor Party are fearing Daniel Andrews’ slide in popularity could tarnish voter’s support when they head to the polls on election day.
Voters could turn away from the Labor Party in the upcoming Victorian state election, as Daniel Andrews grapples with appealing to those heading to the polls.
As the election campaign enters its final week, party polling shows Labor’s primary vote continues to drop.
Labor Party insiders are worried about Mr Andrews’ brand and how voters are starting to dislike his once favourable personality.
The state opposition and anti-lockdown groups have been highlighting Mr Andrews’ polarising personality in election material as a way to turn voters against the premier.
Concern within the Labor Party is mounting, with polling revealed by the Herald Sun this week predicting a possible hung parliament.
The RedBridge poll estimated the Labor and Coalition primary totals would be 38 per cent after the undecided vote was distributed.
More than 500,000 voters have voted since pre-polling booths opened on Monday.
The “anti-Dan” sentiment continues to be a threat to the Labor Party, with insiders forecasting the government’s pandemic management and handling of the health system is leading to a protest vote occurring at the booths.
“Dan is in unknown territory,” a senior Labor source told the Herald Sun.
“There’s a reason the Liberals are using pictures of Daniel Andrews on their campaign material. Labor has walked into a trap.
“It’s starting to look pretty ugly. It will come down to who voters dislike more, Dan or Matthew (Guy).”
Liberal Party data revealed the Premier’s unfavorability rating had hit 51 per cent, as he battles a fourth corruption probe.
“Basically half the state don’t like him,” a senior campaign source said.
“When it comes to the desired outcome for the election only 44 per cent of all voters want a Labor win.
“Only 50 per cent of Labor voters want Labor to win and 38 per cent want a Labor minority. Even Labor’s own supporters are concerned about giving Dan unfettered control.”
Meanwhile, the Victorian Greens are predicting a strong chance to win Northcote and Pascoe Vale from Labor.
Federal Greens leader Adam Bandt said the party’s data had it on track for a “very, very good showing”.
“Don’t be surprised if the seats of Northcote and Pascoe Vale turn green at this election,” he said.
“The ground campaign that has been run by the people-powered movement here in Northcote has seen over 12,000 doors knocked on.
“This is a seat where people are switching their votes.”