One Nation’s recent gains in opinion polls have propelled Pauline Hanson back into the center of Australian politics.
One Nation’s Resurgence and Hanson’s Future
The 71-year-old leader is once again a significant political force, with her party gaining ground and challenging the Coalition.
Hanson addressed questions about her age and potential longevity in the role, stating in an interview for the 7NEWS podcast The Issue, “Tim, perfect health.” She added, “I still run down the hallways of parliament in my heels when I have to get to the chamber for a vote.”
She confidently asserted her physical capabilities, saying, “I tell you what, I’d leave a lot of those other women for dead and I’m the second eldest in that chamber.”
Former Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce, who recently joined One Nation, is now considered Hanson’s potential successor. Hanson stated, “Nothing wrong with me,” emphasizing her continued health. She added, “The heart’s still ticking. No blood pressure, nothing.”
Hanson acknowledged the questions surrounding her health, noting that such inquiries are common for party leaders and prime ministers to protect their ability to lead.
She indicated a desire to eventually pass leadership to someone with “the dedication and passion for this country,” adding, “I’m getting near the end of my life. It’s not about me anymore.” However, she clarified, “I’m at the end of my career… Well, I’ve got a few years left in me. I will stand at the next election.”
Hanson reflected on the origins of One Nation, recalling its growth from her rejection by the Liberals in the early Howard years. She described a “ferocity” when discussing that period and her return to the party in 2015, emphasizing that she had to self-fund its revival.
She stated that those who previously controlled One Nation “undermined me and destroyed the party,” but she has now “rebuilt… the whole lot again, getting people elected to Parliament.” She aims to prevent future attempts to dismantle the party.
Recently, Hanson faced criticism for comments regarding Muslim migration to Australia, sparked by a debate on banning migration from regions with potential terrorist activity. Senator Fatima Payman, one of four Muslims in federal parliament, criticized Hanson’s views, stating they contribute to hatred and discrimination against Muslim Australians. Payman suggested Hanson “pack her bags and go to the US and continue being best buds with Trump.”
Hanson has not indicated any plans to move to the United States but has alluded to considering her eventual departure from Australian politics.
You can catch more of The Issue on Listnr or watch full episodes on our YouTube channel.
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