Pauline Hanson has accused Liberal deputy leader Jane Hume of being “elitist and a snob”, sharpening divisions on the conservative side of politics as parties compete for support beyond the major city centres.
The One Nation leader was responding to remarks made by Hume during an appearance on Sunrise, where the newly elected deputy discussed reconnecting with voters in regional Australia. In the interview, Hume said: “I have to speak a lot slower and talk about the regions more often down in Cocky’s Corner.”
Hanson rejected the tone of the comment, saying: “I think she’s very condescending and I think she’s elitist and a snob when she says, well, you’ve got to talk a bit slower if you’re going at the country.”
She added: “I think it was rude for her to say that. So if she wants to represent all Australians, get out of bloody Toorak, you know, the snobbish area, and understand what Australians are, how they’re feeling out there. So they need to get their act together. Stop saying One Nation hasn’t got policies. We’ve got more policies up there than what the Liberal Party has … So, you know, we’re not a protest party. We’re a party for the people of this nation. And I’d like to see the Liberal Party work with One Nation so we can get rid of the most toxic government, the Labor and the Greens, out of the government. That’s what I want to work towards. Work with me, don’t work against me.”
Hanson also circulated a clip of the interview on social media, writing: “The Liberals new Deputy Leader thinks anyone living outside of Toorak – the prestigious, affluent inner-suburb of Melbourne talks with a drawl.” She added: “What a rude, snobbish comment. That’s who the Liberals on the left have become. A bunch of snobs.”
Hume’s remarks came days after a party room ballot replaced Sussan Ley as Liberal leader, with Angus Taylor elected 34 votes to 17. Hume was chosen as deputy as part of the new leadership team, which has pledged to rebuild support in outer-suburban and regional communities after the 2025 election defeat.
During the Insiders interview, Hume described the party as facing an “existential crisis” and spoke about engaging more directly with voters beyond inner-city electorates, including on energy costs and immigration.
While the next federal election remains some distance away, the exchange reflects an ongoing contest for conservative support in regional and outer-suburban seats. One Nation has sought to position itself as a voice for voters disillusioned with the major parties, while the Liberals attempt to consolidate their base under new leadership.
Hume had not publicly responded to Hanson’s comments at the time of publication.
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