Liberal Senator Andrew McLachlan has warned that his party must not adopt the language and policies of One Nation, or risk writing the script for its own demise. In a piece reflecting on the recent Farrer byelection, McLachlan argued that preferencing One Nation was a mistake that signalled acceptance of their rhetoric and cost the Liberals confidence among voters.
McLachlan urged the party to remain true to its values and not be seen as fellow travellers with One Nation as part of a broader conservative movement. He stated that One Nation does not share Liberal values, particularly aspirations for all Australians regardless of background, and that the Liberals should not entertain thoughts of a coalition with them.
The senator noted that the dramatic decline in the Liberal vote in Farrer after the departure of local member Sussan Ley showed that hard work and confidence in beliefs bring reward. He called for rebuilding public trust by focusing on solving everyday problems rather than adopting a divisive One Nation outlook.
McLachlan concluded that the Liberal movement has never defined itself by what it hates, and should leave that path to One Nation. He expressed hope that the party can emerge from its difficulties and meet Australians where they are today.
