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Roger Cook's Premiership: Can Labor Maintain Momentum to 2026?

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  Published in Politics and Government on Tuesday, December 30th 2025 at 3:43 GMT by The West Australian

The Weight of Expectation: Can Roger Cook Maintain Labor’s Momentum into 2026?

Roger Cook's ascension to Premier of Western Australia was widely seen as seamless, inheriting a government riding high on popularity and buoyed by significant economic tailwinds. However, Jessica Page’s insightful analysis in The West Australian argues that the honeymoon period is over, and Cook faces a formidable challenge maintaining Labor’s dominance heading into the 2026 election. The article paints a picture of a leader facing rising expectations, shifting public sentiment, and a resurgent opposition eager to capitalize on any perceived weakness.

Cook took over from Mark McGowan, who enjoyed unprecedented levels of support largely due to his decisive handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. McGowan’s popularity created a political environment where Labor seemed almost invincible. Cook benefited immensely from this legacy, initially enjoying high approval ratings and a comfortable lead in opinion polls. However, Page highlights that inheriting success doesn't guarantee continued dominance; it creates its own unique set of pressures.

The core of Page’s argument revolves around the concept of “expectation management.” Cook is now expected to deliver on promises made during the 2021 election and address a growing list of challenges facing the state, all while navigating a more complex political landscape than his predecessor. The article points specifically to several key areas where Cook's government faces scrutiny.

Firstly, the economy presents a significant hurdle. While Western Australia has benefited from high iron ore prices (as detailed in related The West Australian reporting), this boom is not guaranteed to last. Cook’s government needs to demonstrate fiscal responsibility and plan for potential downturns while simultaneously investing in crucial infrastructure projects like Metronet, which are vital for long-term economic growth. The article notes concerns about the state debt and the need for Cook to balance spending with responsible financial management – a task made more difficult by increasing cost of living pressures impacting West Australians.

Secondly, housing affordability is rapidly becoming a defining issue. The article emphasizes that the dream of homeownership is slipping away for many young Western Australians, fueling frustration and resentment towards the government. While Cook has announced initiatives to address the crisis, including increased investment in social housing and measures aimed at boosting supply, Page suggests these efforts may be too little, too late to appease a growing electorate concerned about their future. The linked article on housing affordability highlights the complexity of the issue, with factors like interstate migration and construction industry challenges contributing to the problem.

Thirdly, the state’s relationship with traditional owners remains a delicate and potentially volatile area. While progress has been made in recent years, particularly under McGowan's leadership, ongoing disputes over native title and resource development continue to create tension. Cook must navigate these issues with sensitivity and demonstrate a genuine commitment to reconciliation while also balancing the needs of industry and economic growth. The article references the ongoing debate surrounding gas exploration and its impact on Indigenous lands, highlighting the potential for conflict if not handled carefully.

Beyond these specific policy challenges, Page identifies broader shifts in public sentiment that Cook must address. The "rally around the flag" effect seen during the pandemic has dissipated, leaving room for criticism and dissent. The opposition Liberal Party, under new leadership (currently Libby Mettam), is actively seeking to portray Cook as a continuation of the previous government, highlighting perceived failures and questioning his vision for the future. While currently trailing in opinion polls, the Liberals have an opportunity to gain ground if Cook fails to connect with voters on a personal level or effectively communicate his policy agenda.

The article also touches upon potential internal challenges within the Labor Party itself. While Cook enjoys strong support from within his own ranks, maintaining unity and managing competing interests will be crucial as he prepares for the 2026 election. The need to manage expectations amongst various factions within the party, particularly regarding policy direction and ministerial appointments, could create friction that weakens the government's overall position.

Finally, Page concludes that Cook needs to “up the ante” – not in a confrontational way, but by demonstrating genuine leadership, vision, and a willingness to take bold action on the issues facing Western Australia. He must move beyond simply maintaining the status quo and articulate a compelling narrative for the future that resonates with voters. This requires more than just inheriting McGowan’s popularity; it demands Cook forging his own identity as Premier and proving he is capable of leading the state through increasingly complex times. The article suggests that while Cook possesses considerable political skill, the road to 2026 will be far more challenging than many initially anticipated, requiring a significant shift in strategy and a renewed focus on connecting with the concerns of everyday West Australians.

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