7am ‘A cancer’: How Abbott and Credlin control the Liberals
19 snips
May 26, 2025 
Jason Koutsoukis, national correspondent for The Saturday Paper, dives into the shadowy influence of Tony Abbott and Peta Credlin on the Liberal Party. He reveals how a phone call in Dubai sparked a political shakeup, exposing factional tensions and internal strife. Koutsoukis discusses the party's handling of women's rights amid controversy and examines the lasting impact of Abbott's leadership, which many insiders regard as a 'cancer' hindering the party’s progress. It's a revealing look at the ongoing political maneuvering within the Coalition.
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Abbott Orchestrates Party Switch
- Tony Abbott called Natasha Griggs to promote Jacinta Price's shift to the Liberal Party during a Dubai layover.
- Hours later, Price changed party rooms, sparking controversy within the Coalition, especially with the Nationals.
Abbott's Push for Right Wing
- Abbott views Jacinta Price as the future of a stronger conservative Liberal Party.
- His push for a hard-right agenda repeats past mistakes that weakened his leadership.
Party Fallout From Defection
- Nationals reacted angrily to Price's defection, losing official party status in the Senate.
- The Liberals' moderate wing was alarmed by Abbott’s behind-the-scenes power plays and influence.