Barnaby Joyce Joins One Nation, Aims for Senate Seat in 2028
Former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce has officially joined Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party, ending weeks of speculation about his political future. The announcement marks a significant shift in the Australian political landscape, with Joyce setting his sights on a Senate seat representing New South Wales in the 2028 election.
Joyce confirmed his decision, stating, “Pauline made an offer to me to come to One Nation, and I have taken that up. Now I’m really going to focus back on the Australian people.” He described One Nation as the “best choice” for him following his resignation from the Nationals.
“I am firmly of the view, which I have considered over a long period of time, that the best choice before me is to stand for One Nation as a Senator for NSW,” Joyce explained. “I will let the voters be the ultimate arbiter of that decision. There will be some hurt in this decision, and I understand that.”
Joyce praised Senator Hanson’s influence on the political agenda, claiming she had “driven the political agenda” and pushed the Coalition into reconsidering its net-zero emissions policy. “I have great respect for the work that Pauline has done. She has made us – when I was with the Coalition – react to where she has gone. And that’s been an incredibly positive thing for our nation,” he said.
Focus on New England and Future Senate Bid
Joyce emphasized his commitment to his current constituents, stating, “Till the end of this term, the people of New England, I’m going to be absolutely laser-like focused on them.” He added, “Then it’s up to the people of NSW, and they will have a choice as to whether they believe that I’m worthy of the great honour of being a senator for NSW.”
Hanson Welcomes Joyce, Cites Shared Goals
Pauline Hanson expressed her enthusiasm about Joyce’s decision to join One Nation. “With his knowledge and experience in many areas, especially economics as well and the rural sector, I think he has a lot to offer,” she said. “He’s going to enhance One Nation, and we’ll give him more of a voice to speak up on the most important issues to him, where he was stifled by the National Party or pushed to the back bench because they didn’t want him.”
The announcement followed a recent visit by Hanson to Joyce’s hometown of Tamworth, further fueling speculation about his move. A meeting between Hanson and Joyce two weeks prior, where they discussed the potential partnership over a meal, also played a crucial role in the decision.
Joyce’s Departure from the Nationals
Joyce resigned from the Nationals shortly after his meeting with Hanson, citing a breakdown in his relationship with Nationals leader David Littleproud as the primary reason. He had previously announced that he would not be recontesting his seat of New England in the 2028 election. Despite efforts from his former Nationals colleagues to convince him to stay, Joyce ultimately decided to join One Nation.
Senate Ambitions and Political Landscape
Joyce believes that moving to the Senate will provide him with a greater opportunity to advocate for change. While Labor holds a majority in the House, they are in the minority in the Senate, where the Greens currently hold the balance of power. Joyce anticipates that the Senate composition could shift in the next election, potentially giving minor parties, particularly One Nation, more influence.
“I think that it’d be really hard for the Coalition to win the next election, and therefore in the house, especially if you’re sort of on the outer, you’re not relevant,” Joyce stated. “In the Senate, you’ve got more capacity in the committee system, and also the numbers I reckon in the Senate will be tighter after the election.”
Key Policy Areas: Net Zero and Immigration
Joyce has been a vocal critic of the Nationals’ previous support for net-zero carbon emissions targets, a stance that has since been reversed. Hanson has emphasized that net-zero policies and immigration will be key areas of focus for her and Joyce.
“Voters are looking for leadership on the issues which matter to them, like getting rid of net zero and Labor’s record immigration,” Hanson said. “Voters know exactly where I stand on these issues, and in recent weeks I think Mr Joyce has been very clear where he stands too.”
One Nation’s Rising Popularity
Support for One Nation has been growing, coinciding with a decline in the Coalition’s primary vote. Recent polls indicate a surge in One Nation’s popularity, reaching its highest primary vote ever. This shift in voter sentiment suggests a potential realignment of the Australian political landscape, with minor parties gaining traction and influence.
Potential Implications
Barnaby Joyce’s move to One Nation raises several questions about the future of Australian politics:
Will Joyce be able to secure a Senate seat for NSW in 2028? His success will depend on his ability to connect with voters and articulate a compelling vision for the state.
How will this move affect the dynamics within the Senate? Joyce’s presence could potentially shift the balance of power and influence policy debates.
What impact will this have on the Nationals and the Coalition? Joyce’s departure could further weaken the Coalition and create opportunities for other parties to gain ground.
Will Joyce eventually rise to a leadership position within One Nation? Only time will tell if Joyce’s ambition and experience will lead him to a prominent role within the party.
Joyce’s decision to join One Nation is undoubtedly a significant event that will have far-reaching consequences for Australian politics. His future in the Senate and the impact he will have on the political landscape remain to be seen.