Anthony Albanese Has Officially Put His Hand Up For The Labor Leadership 

Anthony Albanese

Anthony Albanese has tossed his hat into the ring, announcing his bid for the Labor leadership.

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Fronting reporters on Sunday afternoon at Balmain’s Unity Hotel in his home electorate of Grayndler, Albanese described last night’s result as “devastating” for Labor but a result that needs to be respected.

“What matters more to me is the future. The future of our party and making sure that we face up to the big challenges that we face as a nation.” 

Albanese said he is the best person to lead Labor back into government.

“I will be asking the members of the caucus and the party for their support. I think Australians know me, I’ve been around in politics now for two decades. 

“I sometimes get things wrong, if I do that, I’ll say that’s the case. I’m someone who can take on the other side of politics in a vigorous fashion.

“What you see is what you get with me. For better or worse, I’m a bit rough at the edges but I think that Australians don’t want someone that just utters talking points so from time to time, I will not be as articulate as someone who’s simply reading from a script”

He wrapped up his press conference by paying his respects to outgoing leader, Bill Shorten. 

“I want to pay tribute to his team and his staff members, they worked incredibly hard.

“Let me tell you, Opposition Leader is the hardest job in politics. No question that is the case. Bill Shorten has done it with distinction over the last six years and he has my respect for the job that he has done on behalf of the party.”

Shorten will remain as Labor’s interim leader until the party locks in his successor. He said he wants a new leader to be elected “as quickly as is reasonably possible.” 

“I promise I will do everything I can to ensure our great party is back stronger, wiser and united to ensure we can deliver a fair go for all.” 

You can watch Albanese’s full press conference below.

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