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How Peta Credlin could be the Liberals’ secret weapon against Labor and One Nation – even if some in her own party can’t stand her: PVO
The opinion piece argues that the Liberal Party should recruit Peta Credlin, find her a winnable House of Representatives seat and consider her for leader. It presents her as a possible challenger to both Labor and One Nation, at a time when the Coalition is struggling in the polls and its leadership options appear unsettled.
Credlin was Tony Abbott’s chief of staff and has hosted a television programme since 2017. The article credits her with helping Abbott become a successful opposition leader, and says her conservative views could appeal to voters considering One Nation; it also points to her record on same-sex marriage as evidence of a more nuanced side. It acknowledges criticism that she wielded too much influence in the Abbott government, arguing that as leader she would need to delegate and listen to colleagues. The poll cited puts One Nation at 28 per cent, Labor at 27 per cent and the Coalition at 21 per cent.
In short
- The article backs Peta Credlin as a potential Liberal leader.
- It cites her role in Abbott’s political rise.
- Her leadership would require greater trust in colleagues.
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The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters could argue that Credlin’s experience in opposition, media profile and conservative views give the Liberals a distinctive candidate who might reconnect with voters drifting to One Nation while challenging Labor. Her past influence in Abbott’s government could be seen as evidence of political skill, and concerns about her leadership style could be addressed through delegation and stronger consultation with colleagues.
The case against
Critics could argue that a prominent media career and experience as a chief of staff do not establish that Credlin can win a seat, lead a parliamentary party or broaden its appeal. Her reputation for wielding influence could deepen concerns about internal trust and collegiality, while elevating a polarising figure may leave the Liberals less able to attract voters beyond their existing base.
Explained simply
Australia’s Liberal Party is a major centre-right party and, with the National Party, forms the Coalition. It is currently competing with the governing Labor Party and One Nation, a smaller party that has attracted voters with more hard-line positions on issues such as immigration.
Peta Credlin was chief of staff to former Liberal prime minister Tony Abbott and has hosted a television programme since 2017. A chief of staff helps manage a political leader’s office; Credlin’s influence in Abbott’s government drew criticism, while supporters credit her with helping him lead the opposition.
The debate reflects questions about the Liberals’ direction and leadership as the Coalition faces pressure from Labor and One Nation. Credlin’s conservative views may appeal to some voters, while her past record and leadership style could divide colleagues and voters.
Read the full article at the source →
Originally published by Daily Mail as “How Peta Credlin could be the Liberals’ secret weapon against Labor and One Nation – even if some in her own party can’t stand her: PVO”.