Pauline Hanson speaks at Mar-a-Lago as Sussan Ley flounders | The Spectator Australia

Pauline Hanson Speaks at Mar-a-Lago as Sussan Ley Struggles

Conservative politics in Australia stands at a pivotal moment: either the Liberal Party manages to revive itself, or One Nation emerges as the dominant voice of opposition. One Nation has surged to a record 15 percent in Newspoll, while the Coalition has sunk to an unprecedented 24 percent.

This dynamic suggests a possible realignment that could reshape the conservative landscape. Long dismissed by the political class as fringe, Pauline Hanson's party is now gaining from growing voter frustration with mainstream conservatives.

Voter Trends and Party Shifts

Key concerns—immigration, cost of living, climate policies, and questions of national identity—are driving this shift. Analyses after the last election reveal conservatives drifting from the Liberals, frustrated by what many see as the Coalition’s attempt to mirror Labor’s platform.

“Young voters like 19-year-old Liam McPherson (quoted by the ABC if you can believe it) exemplify this trend, highlighting generational shifts in political allegiances.”

Hanson’s straightforward approach contrasts sharply with the uncertainty within the Liberal ranks, fueling her party’s rise.

Sussan Ley’s Leadership Decline

At the same time, Sussan Ley’s leadership has unraveled. Her approval rating has plunged to minus 33, marked by weeks of internal disputes, resignations, and visible disunity within the party. Polls indicate her support dropping even further as leadership struggles continue to plague the Liberals.

Summary

Pauline Hanson’s growing appeal and the Liberal Party’s internal chaos highlight a turning point for Australia’s conservative movement, with voter loyalty shifting unmistakably toward One Nation.

Author’s summary: Australian conservatism is fracturing as Hanson rises and Ley falters, signaling a deep transformation in right-wing politics.

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The Spectator Australia The Spectator Australia — 2025-11-08