Barnaby Joyce Quits Nationals Amid One Nation Leadership Speculation

Barnaby Joyce, former Nationals leader and current MP for New England, announced he will not recontest his seat at the next election, citing a broken relationship with Nationals leader David Littleproud. Joyce has not committed to joining One Nation but acknowledged the party does a good job and noted some policy alignments, particularly on net zero emissions. He has been in contact with One Nation leader Pauline Hanson but stressed that nothing is locked in, and he is taking his next steps cautiously. Voters in New England are divided; some support Joyce's potential shift to One Nation, appreciating his advocacy for farmers and his outspoken nature, while others express concern about prioritizing personal political ambitions over regional representation. Joyce's departure comes amid speculation he might contest a Senate spot for One Nation and possibly succeed Hanson as party leader, though he has denied these rumors. Nationals colleagues have attempted to persuade him to stay, highlighting the tensions within the party and uncertainty about the future political landscape in New England.