Overview

• Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was confronted by alt-right protesters in a Melbourne hotel, raising alarm over campaign security despite increased Australian Federal Police protections.
• Opposition Leader Peter Dutton admitted to a factual error during a televised debate, retracting his claim about Indonesia hosting Russian military aircraft.
• The debates have underscored stark policy differences, with housing affordability and public service cuts emerging as key points of contention between the leaders.
• Both Albanese and Dutton addressed international relations, with Albanese expressing trust in U.S. President Donald Trump, while Dutton distanced himself, emphasizing his lack of personal connection to Trump.
• Protests and extremist disruptions have escalated, prompting tighter security and highlighting a volatile political climate as the May 3 election approaches.