Costello Must Be Seething!

How would Costello be feeling after watching John Howard's performance during the debate last night?

Howard was woeful, in my opinion.

Rudd exploited the governments perceived weaknesses in the areas of health, climate change and education. Howard looked weak on those subjects because the government has generally ignored them throughout his incumbency.

If Howard had done the sensible thing and resigned a year ago, Costello, as a new leader, wouldn't have carried that baggage to the same extent. He could have subtly sheeted home the blame for previous inaction to the departed leader. The government's new interest in these areas wouldn't have looked so cynical.

Howard's stubbornness in not resigning with dignity when he had the chance, and Costello's inability to force the issue, has probably cost Costello his turn as PM.

And yes, I know I'm ignoring that Howard has lost every previous election TV debate as Prime Minister. Never write of the chance of a miracle Tampa.