The article, penned by Tony Barry for Guardian Australia, examines the current political dynamics within the Liberal party, highlighting Sussan Ley's recent positioning as a scapegoat amidst the party's ongoing challenges. Despite Ley's designation as such, Barry argues that merely attributing the party's declining support to individual personalities is misguided. Voters are increasingly feeling that the Liberal party does not represent their values, which transcends the importance of specific policies.

Barry stresses that in contemporary politics, shared values are crucial for electoral success. Voters are more inclined to connect with political parties that resonate with their beliefs and principles rather than just their policy proposals. He contends that policies should stem from a party's core values, and without a strong alignment between these values and those of the electorate, parties like the Liberals will continue to struggle to gain voter support, irrespective of who's in leadership.

Ultimately, the article serves as a reminder for political parties that understanding and aligning with the values of their constituents is pivotal for maintaining relevance and securing voter trust. In a time when many voters are disillusioned, Barry argues that the Liberal party must reassess and realign itself with the values that matter most to the Australian public if it hopes to reclaim its standing in politics.