Former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce has officially resigned from his party, announcing he will now serve as an independent member of parliament. This decision comes after weeks of speculation regarding his political future and follows a breakdown in his relationship with the current Nationals leader, David Littleproud. Joyce has indicated he is “strongly considering” aligning with Pauline Hanson’s One Nation, raising questions about the potential dynamics of this political partnership.
The announcement on October 26, 2023, marks a significant shift for Joyce, who has long been a prominent figure within the Nationals. His flirtation with One Nation, reportedly over a dinner of steak and pasta in Senator Hanson’s parliamentary office, has sparked intrigue in political circles. Both politicians are known for their strong personalities, leading many to question whether there is adequate space within One Nation for their ambitions.
Political Landscape and Historical Context
Former Nationals leader Michael McCormack, who was challenged by Joyce in 2020, expressed skepticism about the potential collaboration. “That’ll be an interesting sort of clash of heads between two very much out there people in Pauline Hanson and Barnaby Joyce,” he remarked. “Is there enough room in One Nation for those two? That remains to be seen.”
Joyce’s history of clashes with party leadership adds to the uncertainty surrounding any alliance with One Nation. Senator Hanson’s party has experienced a high turnover of representatives. Currently, Malcolm Roberts stands as the only long-term One Nation senator, having avoided defection from the party that was originally founded by Hanson herself.
The unpredictable nature of this potential partnership has attracted considerable attention. Former Liberal adviser David Gazard, now director of DPG Advisory Solutions, suggested that Joyce’s entry into One Nation could lead to chaos. He stated, “They are two figures that both want to lead and they won’t back down. Barnaby is about Barnaby and Pauline is about Pauline, and ne’er the twain shall meet.” Gazard emphasized that the history of high-profile individuals in One Nation suggests a “train wreck waiting to happen.”
Concerns from Political Peers
Joyce’s colleagues within the Nationals have voiced their apprehensions regarding his potential move. Senator Bridget McKenzie articulated her hope that Joyce would reconsider, describing One Nation as primarily a party of protest. She emphasized that it would be difficult for him to enact meaningful political change in that environment.
As the political landscape continues to shift, the implications of Joyce’s resignation and possible alliance with One Nation remain to be fully understood. Observers will be closely watching how this situation unfolds, particularly given Joyce’s established reputation and Hanson’s contentious history with fellow party members. The coming weeks will likely provide further clarity on whether this political pairing can endure or if it will ultimately lead to further fragmentation within the parties involved.
