The Nationals leader, David Littleproud, has publicly urged Barnaby Joyce to remain within the party following the maverick MP’s announcement of his intention to quit and explore “all options.” This declaration has fueled speculation about a potential shift to Pauline Hanson’s One Nation.
The former Deputy Prime Minister revealed on Saturday that he would not contest his New South Wales seat of New England in the next election, citing an irreparably broken relationship with the Nationals’ leadership. However, Joyce confirmed he would fulfill his duties for the remainder of the parliamentary term.
The announcement has sparked rumors of Joyce possibly making a late-career switch to One Nation, potentially running for the Senate in the next federal election. Littleproud emphasized Joyce’s ongoing importance to the party, urging him to stay within the Coalition.
“We want him to stay in the National party. I think he has a contribution to make between now and when he retires,” Littleproud told Nine’s Today program on Sunday.
Joyce’s Strained Relationship with the Nationals
Joyce has expressed dissatisfaction with his position within the junior Coalition party, especially after being demoted to the backbench following the last election. In a letter to branch members, Joyce stated, “I am free to now consider all options as to what I do next.”
He described the party room dynamics as isolating, noting his seating in “the far corner of the Coalition in the chamber,” which he felt was turning him into “a discordant note.” Joyce has also been vocal about his opposition to the Coalition’s stance on net zero emissions, a contentious issue that he believes should be abandoned.
Littleproud, on Sunday, expressed his intention to engage with Joyce on policy matters, emphasizing the importance of his input in shaping the Coalition’s future.
“We’ve got to make sure that we’re not just a party of protests, we’re a party that can govern and say to the Australian people, there’s an alternative way to address climate change,” Littleproud remarked.
Speculation of a Shift to One Nation
Pauline Hanson, leader of One Nation, has made it clear she would welcome Joyce into her party. Speaking ahead of a party event in Tamworth, Hanson stated, “We’re on the same page. Barnaby is actually more aligned with One Nation than what he is with the National party.”
Hanson noted that Joyce had been marginalized within the Nationals, relegated to the backbench and effectively sidelined. Her comments underscore a potential ideological alignment that could facilitate Joyce’s transition to One Nation.
Political Reactions and Implications
Meanwhile, Liberal frontbencher Jonathon Duniam expressed concerns about the implications of Joyce switching parties during the current term, suggesting it would be “disingenuous” to remain in the Nationals’ party room if he intended to defect.
“I think it’s important to respect those who run you to the dance, and in this case, it was the Nats,” Duniam told Sky News.
Education Minister Jason Clare offered a broader perspective, suggesting that Joyce’s potential departure reflects wider challenges within the Coalition. “Not just the National party, but the Liberal party too, are in a world of pain here at the moment,” Clare commented.
Future Prospects and Political Landscape
The potential shift of a high-profile figure like Joyce to One Nation could significantly impact the political landscape, particularly in terms of the Coalition’s strategy and voter base. Joyce’s decision will likely influence the Nationals’ approach to key issues such as climate policy and rural representation.
As the situation unfolds, the Nationals face the challenge of maintaining unity and relevance in a rapidly changing political environment. The outcome of Joyce’s decision could serve as a bellwether for the party’s future direction and its ability to reconcile internal divisions.
The Australian Associated Press contributed to this report.
