OZ election .com

In an election that, more than ever, seems to have been marketed towards Australia’s younger generations; given the importance played by policies on climate change, broadband penetration and education and on marketing through Web 2.0 online channels, it’s unusual that only one leader has been visible on youth-oriented media avenues this week.

Howard’s absence from national youth-oriented radio was conspicuous, as was his decision not to acknowledge invitations to appear on Network 10’s popular variety show, Rove. Part of the reason may have been his anticipation of Rove’s famous “20 Dollars in 20 Seconds” interview set, which traditionally ends with the question, “Who would you turn gay for?”

Kevin Rudd did make an appearance on the show, and clearly planned his response well in advance. The Rudd man considered Dame Edna for a moment - perhaps not realising she’s a classy country housewife and far too modest for such shenanigans. He then pondered the possibility of coupling with Kath & Kim’s Kjell Knight, for his “style, sophistication and unique power walk.” I’m not sure whether or not that was Fraud’s way of alluding to Rudd’s secret attraction to his power-walking nemesis, John Howard.

In the end, it appeared that Kjell Knight was already taken by fellow Rove guest, Jason Donovan. Given that, Rudd resigned to the safe answer by claiming that his wife, Terese, was the only one for him. Of course, Rove latched on to the awkward mystery created by that statement, by asking Kevin if that meant his wife was a man. In typically embarrassed fashion, Rudd only chuckled his non-response to that dig.

To even out the political balance, Rove compensated for Howard’s absence by subjecting Greens leader Bob Brown to the same set of questions. They weren’t such a political minefield for Brown, who is proudly gay, but Rove did his best by checking for whom Bob would turn straight. Fortunately, he had the sense not to give the same response as Kevin. Otherwise, they’d be battling for Terese’s affections, as well as the Prime Ministership this weekend.