Early voting in Australia election begins, PM Albanese’s party holds slender lead

Australians began voting on Tuesday in the lead-up to the May 3 general election, as the passing of Pope Francis cast a somber tone over the campaign.

Early voting opened for those unable to vote on election day, with about half of all ballots expected to be cast ahead of time.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and opposition leader Peter Dutton canceled their campaign events out of respect for the late pontiff. Flags across the country flew at half-staff, reflecting the significance of the moment in a nation where 20% identify as Catholic.

Albanese, who was raised Catholic but took a secular oath when sworn in as prime minister in 2022, attended a memorial Mass in Melbourne. “My Catholicism is part of who I am,” he said.

Dutton, who also attended a service in Sydney, echoed the sentiment: “Today’s a day for reflection, not politics.”

The two leaders are set to face off in a televised debate later Tuesday, with another planned for Sunday. Labor is seeking a second term, holding a narrow majority in the House of Representatives, which will shrink from 151 to 150 seats after the election. Both sides expect a tight race.

via AP