Mr John Arthur Watkins former Deputy Premier NSW was (I think) the First Choice of the ALP for Bennelong.
He grew up through the ranks as an ALP member in NSW through the very bad old days of Mr E Obeid & Sons and Sir Luncharlot McDonald. They were ably assisted by Mr J Tripodi.
I say he grew up as an ALP member to become Deputy Premier.
Mr John Arthur Watkins AM is a former Deputy Premier of New South Wales, serving between 2005 until his resignation from Parliament in 2008.
Mr OBeid McDonald, and Tripodi were known as the Terrigals.
Mr Watkins conducted his parliamentary life free from the rampant corruption of these ALP says.
It speaks volumes for his character and commitment to Social Justice.
Ms Kenneally was the choice of the Terrigals to become Premier of NSW. Yes Caucus voted her in, but Caucus had instructions.
And she immediately reinstated Mr McDonald as minister after he was booted by Mr N Rees. This incurred the wrath of the Terrigals.
The booted Mr Rees and installed Ms Kenneally who it seems promised to return Mr McDonald to the Ministry.
The Loss of Mr Watkins is a big blow to the ALP campaign
