Liberal Leader Taylor Denies Seat-Carving Deal with One Nation as Hanson Targets Labor Seats
Opposition Leader Angus Taylor has rejected proposals for the Coalition to negotiate a non-compete seat arrangement with Pauline Hanson's One Nation party. The statement comes after Liberal MP Tony Pasin suggested the parties could work together to avoid splitting anti-Labor votes, while One Nation simultaneously raised $1.6 million in a single day through fundraising. The rejection signals the Coalition's preference to rebuild independently rather than align with the surging minor party.
Opposition Leader Angus Taylor has firmly ruled out any plan for the Coalition to carve up electoral seats with One Nation, stating the parties will not negotiate a non-compete agreement ahead of the 2028 federal election. The statement directly contradicts suggestions from Liberal frontbencher Tony Pasin, who proposed the parties work "hand in glove" to target Labor-held seats where each had a chance of winning. Multiple Coalition figures, including Liberal Senator James Paterson and moderate Senator Maria Kovacic, also rejected the proposal, citing concerns about One Nation's candidate quality, policy clarity, and the risks of association with the party. The timing coincides with One Nation's significant fundraising success, with Pauline Hanson's "Fire the Liar" campaign raising $1.6 million in a single day, and multiple polls showing voters increasingly favoring One Nation over other parties. Hanson announced at a Perth fundraiser that One Nation would target Labor-held seats including those of ministers Chris Bowen, Tony Burke, and Andrew Giles.
What different sources said
- ABC AustraliaCenter
Live: Angus Taylor says 'no plan' for Liberals to carve up seats with One Nation
- Sydney Morning HeraldCenter
‘No plan’: Taylor shoots down One Nation seat-sharing deal
- ABC AustraliaCenter
Taylor rules out non-compete agreement with One Nation as party raises $1.6m
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