Australian Billionaire Palmer Starts Political Party Inspired by Donald Trump

Australian billionaire Clive Palmer made headlines on Wednesday by launching a new political party, which he revealed was heavily influenced by U.S. President Donald Trump. With just months remaining before a national federal election, Palmer introduced the “Trumpet of Patriots” party, which he claimed would take bold action to “drain the swamp” in Australia’s capital, Canberra. This phrase, closely associated with Trump’s plans to reduce the size of the U.S. government, became a central theme for Palmer’s new political venture.
In a press conference announcing the party, Palmer praised Trump for his effectiveness in reducing public spending and outlined his party’s goals to do the same in Australia. “We believe Donald Trump has been extremely successful in cutting down on unnecessary government expenditure,” Palmer said.
The party’s platform also reflected positions similar to Trump’s. Palmer, a vocal critic of mass immigration, emphasized that the Trumpet of Patriots would adopt strict stances on immigration policy. Additionally, the party declared that it would only officially recognise two genders, another controversial position aligned with some of Trump’s views on social issues.
Palmer revealed that the Trumpet of Patriots party would run candidates in all 150 seats of the Australian House of Representatives as well as in the Senate, the country’s upper chamber of Parliament. The party aims to have a significant presence in both houses, challenging the current political landscape.
A prominent figure in Australian business, Palmer is known for his wealth and influence. Palmer has a history in Australian politics; he previously led the right-wing United Australia Party (UAP), serving as a lawmaker in the lower house from 2013 for three years. His party’s performance in the last federal election saw him spend around A$100 million (approximately $63.5 million), but the UAP secured only a single seat in the Senate.
Palmer also faced difficulties with party registration for the upcoming election, failing to register the UAP in time. This led to the creation of the Trumpet of Patriots, which he hopes will be better positioned to influence the results of the next federal poll. The election must take place by May, although Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has yet to announce a specific date. It is speculated that the election could occur as early as March, particularly after the country’s central bank cut interest rates in an effort to support the economy. This policy change was seen as a boost for the government, which has been struggling with declining approval ratings amid ongoing cost-of-living pressures.
As the country prepares for the election, Palmer’s new party will likely add another layer of competition to an already complex political landscape. The Trumpet of Patriots, inspired by Trump’s style and principles, could significantly alter the dynamics of the Australian federal election.