John Howard’s dog-whistle intervention in gun debate all but dashes any hope of meaningful reform

John Howard at the memorial for victims of the Bondi terror attack on Tuesday. ‘The political frontrunning from Howard has dramatically shifted the debate and now gives conservative politicians permission to oppose further gun restrictions.’ Photograph: Jeremy Piper/Reuters

In a strange turn of events, it may be John Howard who provides the defining moment of Anthony Albanese’s second term as prime minister.

As the country mourns the tragic loss of life in the antisemitic attack at Bondi, Albanese has responded with calm and sympathy, calling for love and unity to prevail in the face of division.