Anticipated to maintain his position as the leader of the state following a smooth first term, Malinauskas effectively quelled doubters who believed the party’s inability to resolve South Australia’s ramping crisis would be a decisive factor in the elections.

Labor is on track to claim at least an unprecedented 33 seats throughout the state, surpassing the 27 seats secured by Malinauskas’ leadership in the previous election.

STATE OF PLAY: 24 SEATS NEEDED FOR VICTORY
Lab 35 | Libs 5 | One Nation 2 | Others 2 | Five seats in doubt

“Considering the scorching summer Australia has experienced, perhaps we should all look forward to a slight dip in temperature, so when we sing the national anthem with pride, we remember there’s a second verse,” Malinauskas remarked.

“This verse reminds us that when united, we can accomplish anything, as our diversity has always been our greatest asset,” he continued.

“Our state’s full potential will only be realized through collective effort,” he concluded.

“Regardless of where they lived, regardless of where they come form, regardless of the circumstances they’ve endured, regardless of their background, just as long as they call South Australia home.”

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