The quiet force behind Labor’s landslide | The Saturday Paper

Paul Erickson's Role in Labor's Victory

This article details the significant contribution of Paul Erickson, the national secretary of the Australian Labor Party, to their landslide victory in the 2025 federal election. His strategic approach, characterized by meticulous planning, message discipline, and calm leadership, is highlighted as crucial to the success of Anthony Albanese's campaign.

Erickson's Campaign Strategy

Erickson's strategic approach involved:

• Early morning planning sessions ensuring all campaign messages were aligned.
• Maintaining calm amidst the chaos of the campaign, skillfully navigating pressures from various groups.
• Focusing on Medicare as a defining issue, highlighting a contrast with the opposing party.
• Overhauling the digital campaign after the 2023 Voice referendum failure.
• Leveraging internal research revealing voter patterns and shifting political dynamics.

His leadership fostered a culture of unity and discipline within the party, eliminating internal conflict and ensuring a cohesive campaign effort.

Erickson's Background and Career

The article traces Erickson's career, from his early involvement in the ALP to his formative experiences under Richard Wynne, developing his skill in campaign strategy. His work in various campaigns, including the Batman byelection and Tasmanian seat of Braddon, demonstrated his capabilities and earned him the national secretary position.

Speculation about Erickson's Future

The article concludes with speculation about Erickson's future, with suggestions that he could pursue a career in parliament or continue his work in political campaigning. However, those close to him believe that a political career is unlikely.