David Littleproud, the new leader of the Nationals has signaled his own desires. He needs Barnaby Joyce to remain a member of the government’s parliamentary party up until the next federal election. Littleproud, dressed in checked light blue shirt and red tie, emphasised Joyce’s ability to build bridges for the party. As he prepares to ride off into the sunset of his political retirement,
Joyce confirmed over the weekend that he would not re-contest his seat of New England at the next federal election. This announcement has raised concerns within the Nationals about Joyce’s future affiliation, particularly as he has been engaging in discussions with Pauline Hanson regarding a possible move to One Nation.
Littleproud’s Encouragement
In that statement issued in response to Joyce’s political future being thrown into doubt, Littleproud expressed his desire for Joyce to remain.
“We want him to stay in the National Party, we think he has a contribution to make between now and when he retires.” – David Littleproud
Littleproud’s comments reflect a broader strategy to maintain unity within the Nationals and prevent any potential defections that could weaken the party’s position ahead of the upcoming election. The leader’s encouragement comes against a backdrop of increasing tensions within the party, particularly regarding its stance on environmental policies.
Joyce doesn’t have to show it’s “untenable” to remain in a party adopting a net-zero policy. He has been very vocal about his displeasure with the current predatory leadership. His announcement that he will not seek reelection is a profound break from that. This move raises questions about what he is planning to do next and if he will partner with One Nation.
Comparisons to Previous Defections
The Australian political landscape has been no stranger to major party defections over the years. Joyce’s potential defection is being compared by analysts to Mark Latham’s 2002 switch to One Nation. These surprising but possible comparisons serve to show the tremendous effect that a defection can have on party mood and public opinion.
Hanson, leader of the populist right-wing party One Nation, has given a warm reception to Joyce’s apparent desire to join her party. She ultimately wants to win over more of the Nationals and Liberals. This strategy serves to solidify more traditional conservative and right populist votes, an electoral space both parties are eager to own.
Joyce’s recent meetings with Hanson are a sign of an exciting and encouraging new trend. Accounts suggest that she is very aggressively wooing other disaffected National and Liberal members who may be disgruntled with their current party.
The Future of the Nationals
The anxiousness about Joyce’s future and what that could mean for the Nationals is almost as pronounced. As members weigh their options, Littleproud’s leadership faces challenges in retaining key figures like Joyce while solidifying their base ahead of the election.
The internal strife within the Nationals reflects wider ideological battles within Australian politics, particularly on issues such as climate policy. Joyce’s dissatisfaction with party ideology will likely lead to more dangerous splits as he sails in search of a more agreeable political home.
