Barnaby Joyce, the former leader of the Nationals has gone even bolder and joined One Nation. This action represents a stunning and historic turnabout in his political arc. His announcement came during the very last sitting week of the year, in which he announced his defection from the Nationals. Joyce assured New Englanders that he will still be their representative for the duration of his term. It was through this work that he announced his intention to run on One Nation’s Senate ticket for New South Wales in the federal election early next year.
Joyce’s shift is a big deal. It provides One Nation with its first lower house seat since 1998, helping to lock in the party’s power as a parliamentary wedge. That’s why the former Nationals leader didn’t get what he needed from his own party. This sense of failure and frustration led him to step down. In the announcement, he explained that he could no longer give his best to the Nationals. This declaration underscores the former President’s deepening frustration with his party’s trajectory.
A Shift in Political Alliances
Joyce’s defection comes with serious implications for One Nation but perhaps even more serious ones for the Nationals. By joining One Nation, he strengthens the party’s influence, particularly as it seeks to present a united front against the Albanese Labor government’s agenda. Joyce acknowledged that his decision would be painful for some, stating, “There will be some hurt in this decision, and I understand that.”
In his comments, Joyce praised One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, lauding her as a “fellow traveller.” He also lauded her legacy for Australian politics. He did acknowledge her talent for igniting debates that forced the Coalition into uncomfortable responses during his tenure.
“Working with people such as Pauline, I think I have a fellow traveller, and I have great respect for the work Pauline has done. She has driven the political agenda, she made us — when I was with the Coalition — react to where she has gone. And that is an incredibly positive thing.” – Barnaby Joyce
Hanson appear to have welcomed Joyce with open arms into One Nation. She acknowledged his depth of knowledge and experience, and his fight for farmers and regional Australia.
“I am pleased he’s chosen One Nation, and I welcome his experience, his advice and his determination to get a fair go for farmers and regional Australia. Mr. Joyce strengthens One Nation’s position in parliament just as many Australians are strengthening our position in the polls.” – Pauline Hanson
Implications for New South Wales Politics
Joyce’s switcheroo to One Nation could send shockwaves across New South Wales politics. His move will jeopardise the jobs of sitting Liberal senators Maria Kovacic and Dave Sharma. It reinforces the conservative votes that undergird One Nation. This temporary consolidation is big enough that it could significantly change the political dynamic going into the next federal election.
The former Nationals leader has harshly condemned the status quo on policy established by the Albanese government, highlighting alarm over immigration and energy policy. He said it was unacceptable for Australia to ‘trade away rights and take on too many obligations we cannot meet financially or operationally’.
“Australia has handed away rights we should have kept and taken up obligations we should have left, at a price we cannot pay.” – Barnaby Joyce
Joyce elaborated further on these concerns by stating that the pursuit of climate policies has weakened Australia’s energy platform and hindered its citizens’ ability to secure affordable housing.
“We have eviscerated our energy platform on a ludicrous quest to change the weather… and we have increased the population through immigration and, by so doing, removed the capacity for Australians to buy a home.” – Barnaby Joyce
Reactions from Political Peers
The surprise announcement of Joyce’s departure from the Nationals drew sympathetic responses and praise from political leaders on both sides. David Littleproud, a senior member of the Nationals, took to social media bemoaning Joyce’s choice. He felt this way especially because of the faithful support Joyce had from party regulars.
“It is disappointing for the people of New England and disappointing for the loyal National Party members who worked day and night volunteering to support him.” – David Littleproud
Barnaby Joyce enters his new position with One Nation. His goal, as first reported by NPR, is to work hand in glove with state Senator Hanson’s Senate team to boldly counter productive government policies. His move is a major indication of the changing nature of the voting base. One Nation wants to ride the wave of increasing anger among their constituents about immigration and economic calamity.
