they gotta be joking
Funny, isn’t it, how pro-Liberal journalists don't see leadership issues as "woes" when they're talking about the John Howard Party, even though I doubt Costello's a shoo-in (notwithstanding the single poll Tim Dunlop mentions).
In the Weekend Australian, Christopher Pearson was commenting on Liberal Party leadership dilemmas. It seems Treasurer Costello is safe--they're stuck with him; so loyal, such a magnificent Treasurer, so patient, etc. Geez, he's been heir apparent so long, even I want him to get his turn.
And pro-Liberal journos are aware that despite Costello's obvious problems, he's the best of a bad bunch. I mean, look at deputy leader, which Pearson debates. He is keen on Tony Abbott (loyalty, passion, man of conviction, etc.) To this end, he downgrades Downer (AWB, alas) and Brendan Nelson, describing Nelson as "flaky", "trendy", "cheesy" and "smarmy", someone whose "star is waning". (Ah, I love it when the Right attacks their own.)
So, looks like the Libs, according to Pearson, are stuck with Abbott & Costello after all. Funny, Beazley's suddenly looking like a serious contender.