EXPERT COMMENT: Photo of Anthony Albanese’s partner reveals Labor leader’s secret weapon
There’s no doubt Anthony Albanese’s election campaign got off to a bruising start – but he could have a secret weapon up his sleeve in the form of his new partner, Jodie Haydon.
The public’s fascination with the blonde 43-year-old has been clear ever since the couple spoke out about their previously low profile, two-year relationship in a February Women’s Weekly feature.
So far, her appearances on the campaign trail have been relatively limited, with Ms Haydon touring the Royal Easter Show with Albo before his official campaign kicked off, and then only popping up again in Queensland on Saturday and accompanying him to a handful of photo ops, including winning over residents of an aged care facility in Bundaberg.
It was a rare display of spontaneous warmth during the relentless campaign, which has so far been somewhat overshadowed by a few clumsy missteps from Mr Albanese, and which has just copped a fresh blow after a damning new poll revealed Labor’s primary vote had dropped by four points.
But his charismatic partner’s star power could give his campaign the shot in the arm it clearly needs, with Rev Wynter telling news.com.au she was struck by Ms Haydon’s compassion and ability to connect with everyday Aussies, adding that she believed she would be an asset to the Labor leader.
Public relations expert Nicole Reaney told news.com.au that history had shown that political partners “do have an influence” on the public’s overall opinion of a politician.
“And let’s face it, some partners have ended or tarnished a politician’s career,” she said. “Genuine and down to earth qualities are at the opposite spectrum of what people perceive in the political landscape, and will definitely win the public over.”
Ms Reaney said so far on the campaign trail, Ms Haydon appeared to be “supportive” of the Labor leader and “not overly forward or opinionated” – and that her personal qualities coupled with the element of mystery over her and the couple’s relatively new relationship was an advantage for Mr Albanese.
“This element of intrigue invites people to get to know her over time,” she explained.
“There have been many politicians’ partners who ‘try too hard’ and want to win some of that spotlight for themselves.
“Jodie’s character enables the public to warm to her.”
For the full story head to news.com.au.
Nicole Reaney, Director of InsideOut PR and founder of influencer agency, #AsSeenOn. Nicole has extensive experience in corporate and consumer PR and Communications and is available to comment on topics.
