Australian lawmaker hurt in car attack underwent surgery overnight

Australian independent lawmaker Helen Haines underwent surgery overnight but remains in critical condition after being deliberately struck by a car, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Tuesday. The attack occurred outside her office in Wangaratta, a town about 200km northeast of Melbourne, around 3:35pm on Monday. Haines, 65, was retrieving items from her car when the incident happened, according to witnesses quoted by ABC.

The driver, a 43-year-old male, made a U-turn to return to his vehicle after initially passing Haines. He was restrained by local barber Ricky Jefferies, who has been hailed as a hero for his actions. Jefferies expressed his shock, stating that his first thought was for his wife and family. The driver was subsequently arrested by police, who found a knife in his car.

The motive for the attack remains unknown, and Albanese has not speculated while the investigation is ongoing. He lamented that political discourse in Australia had become too heated and personal in recent years, noting a significant increase in threats against elected officials. Albanese emphasized the importance of allowing disagreements in a democracy without questioning people's motivations or patriotism.

Victoria Premier Ben Carroll expressed his appalled reaction to the violent attack in his state. Haines, a nurse and midwife, entered parliament in 2019 and gained recognition for her support of stronger climate action. Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum, with conservative opposition leader Angus Taylor describing it as a shocking day for the nation and far-right Senator Pauline Hanson condemning violence against elected representatives.