WA by-election puts One Nation's growing appeal to the test

A by-election in Western Australia's Secret Harbour electorate is poised to reveal whether the One Nation party's rising popularity extends across the country's west. The contest is seen as a crucial test for the minor party, which has seen a surge in support on the east coast and in South Australia. The Liberal candidate, Ryan Robertson, is in a delicate position, needing One Nation's preferences to have any chance of winning the seat, which has traditionally been a Labor stronghold. This reliance means the Liberals cannot afford to openly criticize or alienate One Nation, despite the potential threat the party poses to the Liberals' long-term viability. Evidence of this strategic approach can be seen in the Liberal party's social media, which has conspicuously avoided mentioning or criticizing One Nation's candidate, Luke Herdegen. Liberal candidate Basil Zempilas himself was observed engaging in conversation with Herdegen at an early voting center. This approach contrasts with Labor's strategy, which has actively sought to link the Liberal party with One Nation. Deputy Premier Rita Saffioti has accused the Liberal party of waving "the white flag" and wanting One Nation to win the by-election. Zempilas, however, has consistently denied these claims, stating that the ultimate victory for his party would be Robertson joining parliament. He acknowledged, though, that Labor losing a seat they have always held would also constitute a victory. The outcome of the Secret Harbour by-election will be closely watched to gauge One Nation's electoral strength in Western Australia, a state with a political landscape distinct from the east coast.

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He could be, and I could be the coach of the West Coast Eagles as well.