Teena McQueen, a former federal vice president of the Liberal Party who recently defected to One Nation, died on Wednesday following a “short but severe” medical condition. Her family confirmed the news, stating they are “extremely devastated” by the loss of a woman who was “extremely close” to her grandsons.
Teena McQueen served as a federal vice president of the Liberal Party for six years, holding the position from 2017 until 2023.
Political career and party transition
Ms. McQueen was a life-long member of the Liberal Party before announcing her decision to join One Nation earlier this year. According to her statements to Sky News in May, she had considered the move for 18 months, citing concerns that the political left had been “creeping in” to the Liberal Party following the end of Tony Abbott’s prime ministership.
During her decade on the Liberal Party federal executive, Ms. McQueen described the experience as “bashing my head against a wall.” She ultimately concluded that joining One Nation was the right decision for her, despite noting that the move was not an easy one to make.
The departure of a high-profile figure like Ms. McQueen from the Liberal Party to One Nation highlights deep-seated tensions within conservative ranks regarding ideological direction. Her death leaves a vacuum for One Nation, which had recently secured her support as a prominent voice for their platform.
Tributes from political figures
Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott described Ms. McQueen as a “good friend” and a “fine servant” to the Liberal Party. Writing on X, Mr. Abbott noted that while she sometimes prioritized loyalty, she was a consistent advocate for internal party democracy and policies in the tradition of Menzies and Howard.
One Nation leader Pauline Hanson expressed her sadness, calling Ms. McQueen a “vibrant and fun loving” woman. Ms. Hanson stated that she intended to “continue the fight” that Ms. McQueen was about to join. Meanwhile, NSW Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane remembered her as a “force of nature in Australian politics,” and shadow education minister Julian Lesser noted that she was a significant figure on the Central Coast.
What happens next
Following her passing, the political landscape may see a shift in how conservative voters perceive the divide between the Liberal Party and One Nation. As Ms. McQueen was a popular political commentator on Sky News since 2017, her absence from the media circuit is likely to be felt by her audience and peers.
One Nation may face the challenge of finding a new figurehead to bridge the gap between traditional Liberal voters and their own base, a role Ms. McQueen had intended to fill. Analysts might observe whether her public frustrations with the Liberal Party influence future discourse among disillusioned party members.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the death of Teena McQueen?
Her family confirmed she died on Wednesday following a “short but severe” medical condition.
When did Teena McQueen join One Nation?
She announced her defection from the Liberal Party to One Nation earlier this year, after considering the transition for 18 months.
What were her roles in the Liberal Party?
Ms. McQueen was a long-standing branch activist on the NSW Central Coast, a delegate to the federal council, and served as the federal Liberal Party vice president from 2017 to 2023.
How do you think her public defection will impact the discourse between the Liberal Party and One Nation moving forward?