Julia Gillard's ouster and Kevin Rudd's return as Prime Minister will have no impact on Australia-US relations according to a top US academic. Kevin Rudd's victory over Julia Gillard was closely monitored in Washington DC. The US regards Australia as a key partner in President Obama's strategy start focusing again on the Asia-Pacific region.

Director for the Centre for Australian and New Zealand Studies at Georgetown University, Dr. Alan Tidwell, says Washington has a high regard for Kevin Rudd. He has many friends and contacts not only during his time as the Opposition Leader but also during his term as prime minister.

Dr. Tidwell says the US State Department and the White House have maintained good relationships outgoing PM Julia Gillard and Opposition Leader Tony Abbott.

US leaders have known Rudd from previous years as well as Tony Abbott from his days in the Howard Cabinet. The State Department and the White House value the substance of the relationship and not the personality behind it.

The Australian Labor Party and the Coalition are both in favor of a stronger relationship between Australia and the United States based on shared democratic principles and shared interests. However, when a major ally of the US experiences political instability, the State Department and the White House would like to see a quick and amicable solution.

Rudd's return as prime minister

The 43rd Parliament of Australia may be on a brink of a constitutional crisis as it enters unchartered waters. The change of leadership in Canberra might trigger something the Parliament has not seen before including Gough Whitlam's dismissal.

After the ballots have been tallied in a caucus vote, Rudd emerged as the victor with 57 votes to Gillard's 45. Kevin Rudd will lead the Australian Labor Party on the upcoming federal election. This was the third time the party leadership has been tested. This time Rudd succeeded as key backers of Gillard switched camps.

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