In a shock announcement, Nationals MP Keith Pitt has revealed he will not contest the next election, using his retirement to unleash scathing criticism of his party’s policy direction under leader David Littleproud. The outgoing Member for Hinkler did not mince words, declaring he and Littleproud have “very different views” on the Nationals’ priorities.
“Political Parties Without Purpose Soon Disappear”
Pitt’s candid interview with The Australian laid bare the internal divisions plaguing the junior Coalition partner. “In my view, political parties without purpose soon disappear,” the MP philosophized. “I just think there’s been a shift in terms of policy positions that is sold as discipline but it’s more about obedience.”
The veteran politician took particular aim at Littleproud’s embrace of the Coalition’s net zero emissions target. Pitt argued these “green policies” must be paid for by the public while having “literally zero impact on the temperature of the planet” and “huge impacts on the wallets of regional people.”
Outspoken Backbencher, Frustrated Minister
As both a backbencher and minister, Pitt developed a reputation as an outspoken advocate for regional industries and a fierce critic of climate action that threatened fossil fuel jobs. He served as Minister for Resources under Scott Morrison, briefly sharing the portfolio with the former PM himself.
Opposition Leader Peter Dutton downplayed the retiring MP’s ideological objections, claiming Pitt was simply “frustrated” at being denied a frontbench position in the Liberals’ shadow cabinet. Dutton praised Pitt as “an incredibly smart guy” who made “an enormous contribution as a minister and as the member for Hinkler in Bundaberg.”
Leadership Rumblings and Nat-Lib Tensions
Pitt’s sudden exit reignites speculation about David Littleproud’s control over the restless Nationals party room. The Hinkler MP’s name has long been floated as a potential leadership challenger – or a kingmaker for someone like Barnaby Joyce to mount a comeback.
Keith was one of a few lonely voices calling out the insanity of our net zero emissions target. Everyday [sic] that Australia loses more manufacturing jobs and gets higher energy prices vindicates Keith’s position.
Senator Matt Canavan, via Twitter
Some Liberals used Pitt’s political epitaph to remind the Nationals who is boss in their decades-old political marriage.
I think it’s important that we never let the tail wag the dog, that the Liberal party stands up for itself and is clear in terms of its values and opinions, but I absolutely acknowledge the important role and place that the National party have.
Senator Simon Birmingham
Nationals Identity Crisis as Election Looms
As the junior Coalition partner grapples with an existential crisis, the Liberals are desperate to present a united front ahead of an expected 2025 election drubbing. With Peter Dutton’s personal approval mired in the negatives and Labor still flying high post-honeymoon, the Opposition can ill-afford more open warfare between its moderate and conservative wings.
Keith Pitt’s parting potshots ensure the Nationals’ eternal struggle between traditional regional interests and modern political realities will remain an election year sideshow. In his sign-off, Pitt invoked a quote often misattributed to Martin Luther King: “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” It’s a safe bet Pitt won’t stay silent for long.
