Exclusive: Guardian Australia obtains social media photo of Northern Territory senator in a ‘Make America Great Again’ hat – as Nationals leader David Littleproud insists her use of slogan was ‘slip of the tongue’

Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, representing the Northern Territory, caused a stir during the Liberal Party's campaign launch in Perth by overshadowing other party leaders with a performance that many described as prime ministerial. Price, likened to a rock star by attendees, led a rallying cry to ‘make Australia great again’, echoing Donald Trump's iconic slogan. Despite her energetic appearance, she later claimed not to remember her statement, which raised eyebrows and drew questions about the alignment of her rhetoric with Trumpian politics. Liberal leader David Littleproud, indicating a potential tension within the party, did not directly affirm Price's statements and sought to distance the campaign from Trump's influence. Reports suggest that within the party, there are concerns about Price’s outspoken nature, particularly regarding sensitive issues such as abortion, which could alienate certain voter groups. In evaluating this event, it becomes clear that Price's appeal lies in her ability to connect emotionally with supporters, marking her as a significant political figure with a growing following. Her assertive communication style frequently likens her to more seasoned politicians, adding to her effectiveness in rallying party faithful. However, her aligning of Australian nationalism with a meme beloved by American audiences could indicate a double-edged sword; while this may energize some supporters, others may view it as a disconcerting, foreign import. Throughout the campaign, both Anna Dutton and Price’s strategies will heavily influence how the electorate perceives the Coalition. As Price attracts a mixed response, social media reactions also indicate skepticism, particularly concerning the appropriation of slogans that are closely associated with a controversial figure like Trump. Ultimately, this campaign may see traditional divides within Australian politics deepen, with Price likely at the forefront of those debates.