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Behind the scenes of One Nation: How Pauline Hanson's adviser James Ashby shapes party strategy
The Guardian's podcast 'The Populist' explores the inner workings of One Nation, focusing on Pauline Hanson's top adviser, James Ashby. The episode reveals that Ashby, who began as a PR professional, now wields significant influence over the party, often making key decisions such as barring media from press conferences. The podcast details Ashby's career trajectory from his early days as a PR flack through a major parliamentary scandal to his current role as a powerful figure within One Nation. As the party's popularity grows, Ashby's role becomes increasingly central to its operations. The episode also touches on recent controversies involving One Nation, including a $56,000 shed built on private property by an One Nation-linked company for Hanson's right-hand man, and the party's abandonment of a gas reservation plan in favor of policies benefiting mining magnate Gina Rinehart. Additionally, it mentions that Hanson's daughter Lee is working remotely for a NSW One Nation senator from Tasmania without ministerial approval. The podcast is reported and presented by Sarah Martin, written by Sarah Martin and Joe Koning, with production by Joe Koning and Lu Hill, and executive production by Marni Cordell and Shelley Hepworth. It was released on Sunday, 20 September 2026, at 17:00 CEST, with a last modification date of Sunday, 20 September 2026, at 23:12 CEST. The episode provides a detailed look at the political dynamics within One Nation, highlighting the behind-the-scenes power structures that shape the party's direction and public image.
