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In the South Australian state election, the Liberal Party's decision to preference 'One Nation' over the Labor Party on how-to-vote cards is seen as a gamble for Ashton Hurn's leadership, with potential federal implications.

South Australia's State Election and Federal Implications

While South Australian politics rarely garners national attention, this Saturday's state election is being closely watched for its potential federal implications. The Liberal Party faces a challenging scenario, pressured by a popular first-term Labor government while 'One Nation' erodes the Liberal base. This election will serve as an initial test of 'One Nation's' growing national support.

One Nation's Erosion of Liberal Support Base

Federal polls consistently show Pauline Hanson's 'One Nation' party outpolling a weakened Coalition. The Liberal Party's choice to place 'One Nation' above the Labor Party on how-to-vote cards is considered a significant risk for Ashton Hurn's leadership. This move could potentially lead to the Liberals' decline, with the election's outcome being closely monitored for its broader impact.

*Source: The Guardian World (2026-03-18)*

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