Clive Palmer’s newly established Trumpet of Patriots party is hoping for a successful outcome in the Senate following a prominent yet ultimately unsuccessful campaign. Party leader Suellen Wrightson, who contested the Hunter seat, was unable to secure victory, with the provisional result favouring the Labor incumbent, Dan Repacholi. After five weeks of campaigning, Wrightson made her X account private, reflecting on the election experience and expressing gratitude to other candidates for their “respectful and engaging debate” regarding community needs.
Despite losing in Hunter, the Trumpet of Patriots may still make headway in the Senate, where counting commenced late this evening and will continue for several weeks. Palmer is optimistic that the party’s preferences have disrupted traditional vote patterns. The mining magnate reportedly invested over $5 million in television advertising for this election cycle, showcasing the party’s commitment to gaining recognition.
In the lead-up to the election, the Trumpet of Patriots faced scrutiny for sending unsolicited text messages to voters, which lacked unsubscribe options, raising concerns about privacy and user experience. Research experts indicated that while blocking the given numbers might provide temporary relief, the party could always use new numbers to contact constituents.
Palmer had to establish this new party after the High Court denied his attempt to re-register the United Australia Party earlier this year. He unveiled the Trumpet of Patriots in February, promising to incorporate many of the policies advocated by former U.S. President Donald Trump, stating, “We will make Australia great.”
In a contrasting stance, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, in his victory speech, dismissed the idea of Australia drawing inspiration from foreign governments. He affirmatively stated that Australians had chosen the Labor Party, asserting, “we do not need to beg or borrow or copy from anywhere else.” Albanese emphasised pride in Australia’s unique values and achievements, positioning his government as committed to following an “Australian way” of governance.
With future Senate outcomes still uncertain, the Trumpet of Patriots will continue to monitor developments as they unfold in the coming weeks.