Former federal Liberal senator Cory Bernardi has been announced as the leader of Pauline Hanson and One Nation's campaign for next month's South Australian state election. The prominent conservative figure will head the party's push in his home state, bringing his political experience and vision to the forefront of the electoral battle.
Hanson Welcomes Bernardi's Conservative Values
Pauline Hanson expressed strong enthusiasm for Bernardi's involvement in the campaign. "It's great to have Cory Bernardi on board," Hanson stated. "Cory has strong, sound conservative values that are an excellent fit with One Nation and he's a prominent South Australian keen to make the positive differences in his home state the Liberals just can't bring themselves to make."
Hanson revealed that discussions with Bernardi have been ongoing for some time. "I've been in positive discussions with Cory for some time. He has a clear vision for South Australia's future and it's one that we both share," she added, highlighting the alignment of their political objectives.
Bernardi's Political Journey and Return
Cory Bernardi, born in Adelaide in 1969, has a substantial political background in South Australia. He served his home state in the Senate between 2006 and 2020, beginning his first term after Robert Hill resigned to become Australia's ambassador to the United Nations. Bernardi was re-elected in 2013 and 2016 but made a significant move in 2017 by leaving the Liberal Party to form the Australian Conservatives.
Following a disappointing performance in the 2019 federal election, Bernardi announced the registration and subsequent dissolution of his party. He formally left the senate in January 2020, marking a temporary departure from active politics.
Reasoning Behind the Comeback
Bernardi explained that his return to the political arena is based on his belief that One Nation represents the only genuine opposition in South Australia. "There's very little difference between them [Labor and the Liberal Party] these days," he remarked. "There's no effective opposition to government; they're effectively one party — a uniparty — and that's a bad thing for South Australians because they're being left behind."
He elaborated on the challenges facing residents, stating, "Their wages are flat, their costs are rising, and many no longer recognise communities that have become increasingly unsafe." This critique underscores his motivation to re-enter politics with One Nation.
Polling Context and Electoral Landscape
The announcement coincides with fresh polling data indicating shifting voter preferences. More than a quarter of Australians would give Pauline Hanson their primary vote, according to recent surveys. However, this figure remains well short of Labor's standing at 34 per cent.
A RedBridge poll published on Monday revealed that 26 per cent of voters would give One Nation their first preference. This represents an increase of nine points as support continues to decline for the former coalition and its embattled leader, Sussan Ley.
Ley's personal favourability rating has fallen to just 10 per cent, while the combined support for the Liberals and Nationals has sunk to 19 per cent. This marks a decrease of seven points since December, highlighting the turbulent political climate.
Upcoming Election Date
South Australians are set to go to the polls on March 21, making the state election a critical event in the Australian political calendar. The involvement of Cory Bernardi adds a new dynamic to the campaign, potentially influencing voter decisions and party strategies.
