Peter Dutton’s preference call on One Nation could hurt Coalition in at-risk seats, strategists warn

The Coalition hopes to increase its share of preferences from One Nation but some insiders argue the move damages its reputation

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Coalition strategists have warned Peter Dutton’s move to put One Nation above Labor and other parties on some how-to-vote cards could damage support among metropolitan voters and help independents in at-risk seats such as the New South Wales electorate of Cowper.

The Coalition believes preference flows from One Nation and other rightwing candidates could push Liberal and National candidates over the line in tight regional and outer suburban contests, but some Coalition insiders have criticised the decision.

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