The Morning Edition Inside Politics: Will the Coalition split or stay together?
May 22, 2025
James Massola, Chief Political Commentator, brings sharp insights into the tense relationship between the Nationals and Liberals. He dives into the dramatic moments of a potential political divorce, only to see it paused for further negotiations. Discussions reveal the damaging impact of differing climate policies and shifting party dynamics. Massola also examines how internal negotiations could affect the coalition’s future and highlights recent clashes in the ranks, shedding light on the precarious nature of conservative politics.
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Negotiations Amid Personal Tragedy
- Nationals leader David Littleproud drove to Albury to negotiate with Liberal leader Susan Lee, who was caring for her dying mother.
- This emotional timing complicated high-stakes coalition talks.
Nationals' Unprecedented Demands
- The Nationals demanded four key policy commitments and no cabinet solidarity, which was unprecedented.
- Cabinet solidarity means unified party positions after internal discussion, with no public dissent.
Conflicting Party Interests
- Nationals want to defend policies promised to voters to maintain their seats.
- Liberals seek to rebuild party policies to regain lost seats after election defeat.