Tony Abbott: New One Nation alliance shouldn’t be underestimated
Tony Abbott says his party can’t afford to underestimate Mark Latham as he re-enters the political arena.
The former Labor leader will contest the New South Wales election for One Nation, and will also lead the party’s state branch.
One Nation leader Pauline Hanson and Mr Latham revealed the news to Alan Jones this morning.
Some are speculating the political partnership will be shortlived, claims the pair are rubbishing.
Senator HansonĀ told Ben Fordham the pair are a “great mix” and will work well together.
Former prime minister Tony Abbott says there’s a possibility “this will all end in tears” but there’s also a chance the alliance will make One Nation a “more formidable force”.
He says Mr Latham shouldn’t be underestimated.
“I think you’ve got to take seriously someone who’s been leader of a major political party in our country,” Mr Abbott tells Ben Fordham.
“We can’t forget that back in 2004, for much of the year leading up the election, Mark Latham was ahead of the Howard Government in the polls.”
The Member for Warringah says his party can’t afford to become complacent.
“I think both political parties need to really be conscious of the fact that if others come and steal some of their territory, if others come up with policies that the public like, well, we’ve got to lift ourĀ game.”
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