Mar 18 • 02:44 UTC 🇬🇧 UK Guardian

As South Australia’s Liberals struggle to stay in the fight, will their preferences usher in One Nation?

The South Australian state election has significant implications for the struggling Liberal party and the rise of One Nation, with preference flows potentially impacting the outcome.

The upcoming South Australian state election has garnered unusual national attention due to its potential impact on federal politics, particularly regarding the challenges faced by the Liberal party. With a popular Labor government currently in power, the Liberals are under pressure as they contend with the increasing support for One Nation. This election is pivotal for One Nation as it represents a testing ground for its appeal on a national level, especially as polls indicate that the party is outpacing the weakening Coalition government.

Recent polling data from South Australia shows that the Labor party holds a significant lead, while One Nation appears to be gaining traction, often ranking above the Liberals in terms of voter support. This shift in political dynamics raises critical questions about the flow of preferences in critical electoral seats. The Liberal party's strategic decision to prioritize One Nation over Labor on how-to-vote cards may significantly influence voter behavior, particularly in the context of a close-fought election.

As the state heads towards election day, the implications of these shifts are profound. If One Nation continues to consolidate its support and draws preferences from the Liberals, it could reshape the political landscape in South Australia, reinforcing a trend observed in recent federal polling. This election may not only decide the future of the Liberal party in South Australia but also signal broader trends that could affect federal politics as the national electoral landscape evolves.

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