Australian billionaire plans to contest all seats in upcoming elections
Australian billionaire Clive Palmer has unveiled his new political party, Trumpet of Patriots, inspired by U.S. President Donald Trump. Palmer claims the party will “make Australia great again” and intends to contest every seat in the upcoming federal election.
A Trump-style vision for Australia
Speaking at a press conference in Canberra, Palmer emphasized that the party’s ideology aligns with Trump’s policies, which he believes have successfully restored leadership and governance.
“The party believes in the policies of Donald Trump, which have proven effective in bringing management back on track,” Palmer stated.
He further added, “Australia should be for all Australians living here. Trumpet of Patriots will put Australians first and make Australia great again.”
Campaign against political elites
The party’s website echoes these sentiments, vowing to “drain the swamp” and promote “common-sense policies for Australia.” It criticizes the existing political system, claiming:
“For too long, Australians have suffered from a Labor and Liberal duopoly of power, supported by the Greens and now the Teals. The simple reason your cost of living is so high is because Australians are being ripped off by the political system, unelected bureaucrats, and the lobbyists who support them. Enough is enough!”
Who is Clive Palmer?
Palmer, a billionaire mining magnate and former politician, previously led both the Palmer United Party (PUP) and the United Australia Party (UAP). However, after failing to re-register the UAP in time for the election, he was forced to launch a new party.
During the 2022 federal election, Palmer—Australia’s 18th richest person—spent nearly AUD 100 million (approximately USD 64 million) campaigning for the UAP. Despite the significant investment, the party only managed to secure one Senate seat, held by Victorian senator Ralph Babet. However, Babet has reportedly declined to join Trumpet of Patriots or run in the upcoming election.
Who will lead the party?
Instead of Palmer, the party will be led by Suellen Wrightson, a former UAP candidate who previously contested in the Hunter region of New South Wales.
While Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has yet to officially announce the federal election, it must be held by mid-May. With Trumpet of Patriots entering the political landscape, the upcoming election is set to be even more competitive.
