Is this a skill all politicians should now have?

Just a few days ago, our outgoing and outdated prime minister resigned using antiquated technology – yes, Tony Abbott sent a message announcing his intentions via fax machine.

The world is moving too fast for Mr Abbott, but not, it seems, for New South Wales premier Mike Baird, who has made headlines around the nation, not for his policies or political prowess, but because he tweeted live throughout the final episode of some ghastly reality TV show.

The premier was allegedly at home suffering from “man flu”, and was drawn in the finale of The Bachelor, which his daughters were watching.

His messages on Twitter were funny, in a dad-joke, bewildered kind of a way.

Stuck at home on the couch with man-flu. Daughters have hijacked the TV and are watching The Bachelor. Going to be a loooong night.

— Mike Baird (@mikebairdMP) September 17, 2015

He seems very sincere for a guy who is two-timing, live on TV. This is only a 30 minute show, right? #TheBachelorAU

— Mike Baird (@mikebairdMP) September 17, 2015

I thought he’d made his decision when he just kissed one of the girls! My daughters are laughing at me. #TheBachelorAU

— Mike Baird (@mikebairdMP) September 17, 2015

What’s with this music? A bit of cold chisel wouldn’t go astray. #TheBachelorAU

— Mike Baird (@mikebairdMP) September 17, 2015

Hang on. There’s a bachelorette?! Why don’t they just hook her up with this guy and save us all some time. #TheBachelorAU

— Mike Baird (@mikebairdMP) September 17, 2015

Hang on, who’s this second guy?! Not even a rate cut from the RBA could deal with the inflation levels in that hair style. #TheBachelorAU

— Mike Baird (@mikebairdMP) September 17, 2015

I can’t take any more. Off to bed. Key learning: Cabinet decision making might be a lot simpler with a rose ceremony process. #TheBachelorAU

— Mike Baird (@mikebairdMP) September 17, 2015

What’s more bewildering is the fact the premier has woken up a hero this morning, and not just on Twitter.

Huffington Post says, “Mike Baird live Tweeting The Bachelor is better than watching The Bachelor”.

Business Insider declared, “NSW Premier Mike Baird live-tweeted The Bachelor finale like a pro.”

Sky news said the premier “lights up Twitter” and hinted at a career change.

The premier was quick to draw parallels between reality TV and politics.’It must be terrible for those girls. Imagine having every word u say captured, televised, and taken out of context. Oh wait…’ he tweeted.

Is this an essential skill for future politicians? Is it the 2015 equivalent of slamming down a beer with everyday Australians – lying on the couch Tweeting about television shows?

The Guardian reports this morning that Julie Bishop has been on a following spree on Twitter overnight – perhaps it’s a directive from the new boss?

What do you think of “Batchie Baird” becoming an overnight sensation thanks to his twitchy thumbs? Is this how politicians “stay in touch” with real people?