LABOR has redirected its campaign resources to save embattled MPs in NSW and Queensland amid expectations the party will lose at least 12 seats to leave Tony Abbott with a comfortable parliamentary majority of 20.
Despite the first rise in the ALP's polling support during the election campaign, Kevin Rudd's strategy is now focused on circling the wagons to defend seats, limit Labor losses and contain the Coalition's post-election majority.
Although the Prime Minister yesterday vowed to "fight on" and Chris Bowen said Labor could still win on September 7, Mr Rudd's initial strategy of trying to win back Coalition-held seats in Queensland is being scaled down.
Mr Rudd initially targeted five Coalition marginal seats in Queensland, including Forde, where former premier Peter Beattie was the surprise choice as ALP candidate.
But the Prime Minister is now visiting marginal Labor seats in NSW and Queensland, where at least eight are likely to be lost and Mr Rudd's own seat of Griffith is at risk.
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/election-2013/rudd-battles-to-save-key-mps-as-reali...
