Speculation that a state election for Tasmania could be called any day now is growing everyday.
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Sources from within political circles have told The Examiner a May state election is likely given the Liberals' minority government position.
Government minister Michael Ferguson has deflected questions about an early state election, saying the call is a matter for the Premier.
He was asked on Thursday whether the party was in discussions about a May state election and whether there would be consideration of the June due date of Labor leader Rebecca White's second child, Mr Ferguson said:
"The timing of elections are entirely a matter for the Premier."
IN OTHER NEWS:
The government lost its majority on the floor of the House of Assembly over the weekend when Premier Peter Gutwein told speaker Sue Hickey she would not be re-endorsed by the party to run for them in the next state election.
Ms Hickey later announced her intention to run as an independent which meant she was no longer a member of the party or the government.
With the government in minority, Labor this week had an opportunity to test the confidence of the house in Parliament but did not.
If it did and the Greens voted with them and independent Madeleine Ogilvie voted with the Liberals, Ms Hickey would have been forced to use her casting vote.
This may have provided the government a trigger to call an early election.
READ MORE: Courtney mum on state election whispers
Sources have said Mr Gutwein would be considering an early election following the re-election of governments in the ACT, Western Australia and Queensland on the back of successful efforts to fight the coronavirus pandemic.
His personal approval rating is at 61 per cent.
Political reporter for Australian Community Media, based in Hobart.
Political reporter for Australian Community Media, based in Hobart.
