Political Turmoil and Shifting Alliances

Donald Trump has re-entered the domestic political frame this week, doubling the tariffs on steel and aluminium, while his defence secretary urges Australia to increase its defence spend. So, how is Anthony Albanese positioning?

And then there's shock defection of WA Senator Dorinda Cox from the Greens to Labor — and Teal Independent Nicollete Boele just clinching the seat of Bradfield. But it looks like Liberal candidate Gisele Kapterian could appeal the result.

And speaking of Liberal women, Fran and PK are steel reeling from a Liberal elders' suggestion that women in the party are "sufficiently assertive" and that it might be time to give men in the party a leg up.

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Paul Sakkal, Chief Political Correspondent for the SMH and the Age on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au