Can Anthony Albanese credibly claim to be a successor of Whitlam?

Core Argument - The article argues that Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is more aligned with the political style of former Liberal PM Scott Morrison than with the legacy of Gough Whitlam, highlighting a shift in Labor's approach to governance and policy-making [1]. Political Context - Albanese's recent speech at the launch of a biography of Gough Whitlam suggests a desire to connect with Whitlam's visionary leadership, yet contrasts sharply with his own cautious political strategy [5][8]. - The article notes that Albanese's government has adopted a risk-averse approach, winning the 2022 election through a "small-target strategy" rather than bold policy initiatives [8]. Governance and Policy Decisions - Albanese's administration has faced criticism for lacking transparency and for enacting laws that appear to align more closely with Coalition policies, particularly regarding refugees and foreign relations [10][11][18]. - The government's handling of the AUKUS agreement is highlighted as a significant policy decision that raises concerns about Australian sovereignty and military alignment with the U.S. [20][21]. Personal Conduct and Public Perception - Albanese's personal decisions, such as purchasing a $4.3 million home during a national housing crisis, have drawn scrutiny and raised questions about his commitment to Labor values [24][25]. - The article suggests that Albanese's actions may reflect a shift in his political identity, moving away from the "left behind" narrative he previously embraced [27]. Media and Public Relations - The article discusses the role of media, particularly News Corp, in shaping public perception of Albanese's government, noting a historical opposition to Labor governments and the implications for Albanese's political strategy [4][3].