Barnaby Joyce to Quit Nationals, Fuels One Nation Defection Speculation
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A seismic shift is underway in Australian politics as former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce has informed supporters of his intention to leave teh party and will not contest his seat of New England in the next federal election, opening the door to a potential move to One Nation. The proclamation, first reported by Sky News, comes amid escalating tensions within the Nationals and speculation that Joyce is actively considering a party switch.
Joyce’s decision marks a dramatic turn for the veteran MP, who was relegated to the backbench following the May federal election. According to a statement reportedly sent to party members in his electorate, his relationship wiht the Nationals leadership has deteriorated to the point of being “untenable.” He intends to serve out his current term on the crossbench while evaluating his future options.
Hanson Welcomes Potential Alliance
The leader of One Nation, Pauline hanson, publicly extended an invitation to Joyce to join her party, asserting he is ideologically more aligned with One Nation than with the Nationals. speaking during a party event in Tamworth, New South Wales, on Saturday, Hanson stated, “I’ll encourage him: Barnaby, I’ll open doors for you. Come across to One Nation. I think he’s got a lot to offer in politics.”
Hanson further emphasized this perceived alignment,saying,”We’re on the same page. Barnaby is actually more aligned with One nation than what he is with the National party. He’s been shut down in the National party. They put him on the backbench, out of the way.” She also revealed prior conversations with Joyce regarding a potential move, stating she had discussed the possibility with him “last year.”
Internal Confusion and speculation
The news of Joyce’s impending departure has been met with confusion within the Nationals. While one source claimed Joyce had informed the party’s national executive of his intention to sit as an self-reliant, another senior party figure stated they had not received direct dialog from him. Several Nationals politicians reported being unaware of any developments,relying on media reports for facts.
Speculation is rife within the party regarding Joyce’s next move, with some suggesting he may seek a Senate position with One Nation at the next federal election. A spokesperson for One Nation declined to comment directly on discussions with Joyce but did not deny the reports of ongoing conversations.
Escalating Tensions and Policy Disputes
The rift between Joyce and current Nationals leader David Littleproud has been widening as the May election. Joyce has been a vocal critic of the party’s net zero by 2050 carbon policies, even introducing a private member’s bill aimed at dismantling the plan. He has consistently campaigned against renewable energy projects, despite the Coalition’s ongoing review of its climate policy. Earlier this year, Joyce notably cro
Why did this happen? Barnaby Joyce resigned from the Nationals due to a deteriorating relationship with the party leadership, specifically David Littleproud, stemming from policy disagreements, particularly regarding net zero emissions targets.he felt sidelined after being moved to the backbench following the May election.
Who is involved? Key figures include Barnaby Joyce, pauline Hanson, David Littleproud, and members of both the Nationals and One Nation parties.
What is the outcome? Barnaby Joyce will leave the Nationals and will not recontest his seat of New England. He
