Blaming Donald Trump for conservative losses in both Canada and Australia is being too kind to Peter Dutton
The ConversationMAY 4
Australia: Greens Leader Loses Melbourne Seat in Labor Landslide
Above: Greens leader Adam Bandt talks to journalists at Brunswick East Primary School's Wills seat on May 3, 2025, in Melbourne, Australia. Image copyright: Morgan Hancock/Stringer/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
The election results reflect a clear rejection of extreme politics and a desire for stable governance. Labor's victory demonstrates that Australians are increasingly wary of importing divisive political tactics from abroad, particularly the Trump-style approach that some politicians attempted to adopt. The electorate has shown a preference for practical, centrist solutions to address cost-of-living concerns and climate change.
Progressive narrative
The Greens' electoral setback doesn't represent a rejection of progressive policies but rather strategic voting by constituents who prioritized preventing a conservative victory. Despite achieving their highest national vote in history, the party fell victim to preference flows and a "riptide" effect that saw voters strategically support Labor to ensure a progressive government. The party maintains strong support for its climate and social justice agenda.
Conservative narrative
Dutton's major loss has clearly reshaped Australian politics. But it's incorrect to focus on this election being a reaction against Trumpism alone. The Dutton strategy leaned into stumping in the suburbs versus traditional heartland areas and calculated that rising popularity among working-class men would offset declining votes from middle-class women. These tactical mistakes must be closely reviewed going forward.