Voters lured by 'dry pragmatism' of One Nation

Voters are increasingly drawn to the One Nation party, which has surpassed Labor in preference polls following a significant by-election win. According to the latest Newspoll, One Nation could secure 30% of the primary vote, surpassing the government's 29% support and positioning itself ahead of the coalition. The Greens have experienced a decline to 13% since the previous poll in early August.

Federal MP Barnaby Joyce attributes One Nation's rise to a perception of 'dry pragmatism,' stating that voters dislike the notion of limited political choices. The poll follows the recent Secret Harbour by-election in Western Australia, where One Nation secured a landslide victory in a traditionally Labor-held seat. The coalition remains in third place federally, with less than a quarter of respondents selecting Liberal leader Angus Taylor as their preferred Prime Minister candidate, while Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese maintains a strong lead of 46%.

One Nation leader Pauline Hanson criticized the government's stance on migration, accusing them of fueling political polarization. One Nation's newly elected MP David Farley faced backlash for contradicting migration policy pledges, potentially leading to his departure from the party. Joyce dismissed these speculations, emphasizing Farley's qualifications for leadership within the One Nation party.

The focus now shifts to Victoria's upcoming state election in November, where One Nation aims to make significant gains.