The Canberra Times argues in its recent editorial that if Malcolm Turnbull did not rule out an early election, his credibility as an economic reformer could be damaged.
Indeed, speculation is building that Mr Turnbull will call a double dissolution election for July now that Parliament is close to approving Senate voting changes that will probably see the removal of the crossbenchers who've proved so hostile to the Coalition's legislative agenda.
But because a double dissolution election must be called no later than May 11, the budget will have to be brought forward, leaving barely a week for parliamentary debate and public discussion.
In calling an early election, Mr Turnbull runs the risk of damaging his credibility as an economic reformer intent on getting the process underway sooner rather than later. And Mr Turnbull's ability to shape and implement major economic reform will likewise be weakened if public anger over an early poll results in the government's majority being reduced to any significant degree.
