That was without doubt Abbott's objective.
One small problem. He may have underestimated the intelligence and resolve of core centre-right Liberal voters. His destruction of the party and the government will not be forgotten in Warringah. More and more political observers are noting he is becoming vulnerable to a good independent.
Compounding the problem of his lack of popularity, is that Turnbull will not be coming to Abbott's rescue the way he did in 2016. Abbott will be all on his own this time.
