Virtually written off as a political basket case just a few weeks ago, Australian Prime Minister John Howard is touted as the likely winner of the general election on November 10.
Mr Howard set the election date on Friday, with his new-found popularity viewed as a product of a firm reaction to last month's terrorist attacks in the United States and his tough policy on refugees.
In July, Mr Howard's prospects for re-election were considered poor, while his opponent, Labor Party leader Kim Beazley, was considered unassailable.
A series of unpopular policies - including a tax on petrol and the introduction of a goods and services tax - saw Mr Howard's popularity plunge.
It was widely predicted that Mr Howard's second term in office would be his last.
His coalition Government, made up of the Liberal and National parties, was viewed by many voters as smug and indifferent to the concerns of ordinary Australians, especially in rural areas.
