In a significant political shift, former Liberal senator Cory Bernardi has aligned himself with Pauline Hanson’s One Nation party, marking a strategic move ahead of the South Australian election scheduled for March. This development comes amidst rising support for One Nation, as it seeks to convert favourable polling into tangible parliamentary representation.
Bernardi’s Political Journey
Cory Bernardi, who previously served as a senator for South Australia from 2006 until his resignation in 2017, has transitioned from the Liberal Party to a more right-leaning platform. After his departure from the Liberals, he attempted to create a new conservative party, the Australian Conservatives, which ultimately dissolved in 2019. Following his exit from the Senate in 2020, Bernardi became a prominent commentator on Sky News Australia, using the platform to voice his political views until 2023.
Hanson announced Bernardi’s candidacy on Monday, stating he would lead One Nation’s ticket for the legislative council. In her remarks, she emphasised his strong conservative values and local prominence, which she believes will resonate with voters disenchanted by the current government. “Cory has strong, sound conservative values that are an excellent fit with One Nation,” stated Hanson, indicating a clear alignment of their political objectives.
One Nation’s Electoral Strategy
As the South Australian election draws nearer, One Nation is gearing up to contest all lower-house seats, positioning itself as a viable alternative in a political landscape dominated by the Labor government led by Peter Malinauskas. Polling suggests that Labor is likely to retain power, with the Liberal opposition bracing for a challenging electoral battle. The upcoming election serves as a litmus test for One Nation’s ability to leverage its growing popularity into successful candidacies.
Bernardi has expressed his intention to address what he perceives as failings in both major parties, particularly concerning economic management and public safety. He stated, “Their wages are flat, their costs are rising, and many no longer recognise communities that have become increasingly unsafe.” His proposed agenda includes reducing government expenditure, lowering taxes, and managing the state’s debt, although specific policy details remain vague.
Implications of Bernardi’s Move
The addition of Bernardi to One Nation’s ranks aligns with a broader trend of conservative figures gravitating toward the party, particularly in light of recent defections from the Coalition. This shift has raised speculation about further movements within the Liberal Party, with reports suggesting that Senator Alex Antic may also be contemplating a departure. However, Antic has reassured his colleagues that he intends to remain within the party.
As One Nation prepares for the electoral contest, it has hinted at unveiling additional high-profile candidates in the coming days, generating anticipation among supporters and observers alike. James Ashby, One Nation’s chief of staff, suggested that these announcements would have a significant impact on the political landscape.
Why it Matters
Cory Bernardi’s endorsement of One Nation is more than a mere personal shift; it represents a potential realignment within Australian politics, as conservative factions seek to consolidate their power amidst a shifting electorate. With the South Australian election on the horizon, the ability of One Nation to convert its rising support into electoral success could reshape the dynamics of political representation in the region and alter the balance of power in state politics. As voters grapple with pressing economic and social issues, the outcome of this election may signal a turning point for conservative movements across Australia.