Championing Regional WA in the Face of Political Change

The Nationals Leader Fighting for Regional WA

With just three weeks until the Western Australian state election, many voters remain unfamiliar with the official opposition leader. But Shane Love, leader of the Nationals, insists the election isn't about one individual, but about the candidates representing each electorate.

Love acknowledges that his own popularity played a role in his unusual position. He recounts an anecdote from the 2021 election, where he helped a group of women vote for Labor despite their desire to vote for then-Premier Mark McGowan. This incident highlights McGowan's immense popularity, which led to the Liberal Party securing only two seats and the Nationals becoming the dominant opposition party with four seats.

Following their victory, Labor introduced electoral reforms that implemented a "one-vote, one-value" system in the upper house. This change, criticized by the Nationals as stripping regional representation, prompted the WA Nationals to field candidates in metropolitan seats for the first time. However, Love emphasizes the party's commitment to its rural roots and its desire to differentiate itself from the Liberal Party.

Love specifically criticizes Liberal leader Libby Mettam's stance on the Aboriginal flag, arguing that voters are more concerned with practical issues like education, healthcare, and employment. He also maintains that the Nationals and Liberals can continue their alliance with shared shadow portfolios if Labor wins again.

Despite facing accusations of bullying from a former Nationals MP, Love maintains his innocence and plans to seek re-election as leader in 2025. He acknowledges the significant challenge he faces in the newly formed Mid West electorate, where he is up against a Liberal candidate.

Love emphasizes the importance of the Nationals in representing regional concerns and providing an alternative to the "Coles and Woollies" of Labor and Liberal. He highlights the challenges faced by regional communities, including population decline, feelings of being forgotten, and concerns about new renewable energy projects.

Love believes the gap between the city and the country remains significant, with both urban and regional areas facing unique difficulties. He emphasizes the importance of geography in shaping these challenges.

This article provides a glimpse into Shane Love's campaign and his vision for the Nationals in Western Australia. As the election approaches, it remains to be seen whether Love can secure re-election and ensure the continued representation of regional voices in the state's political landscape.