Labor Supports Rudd to Continue as Ambassador Despite Trump’s Disapproval
Despite some misgivings, senior Labor figures support the appointment of the country’s Ambassador to the United States, Kevin Rudd, while the Coalition withdraws its earlier support for the outspoken former PM.
Amid an attack by GOP presidential candidate Donald Trump, senior Australian politicians, including the prime minister, stand behind Ambassador Rudd. However, the ease with which a U.S. president can revoke an ambassador’s credentials raises concerns about the stability of U.S.-Australia relations under a Trump presidency.
During an interview on UK TV channel GB News, Mr. Trump initially feigned ignorance regarding past criticisms made by the former prime minister.
Before assuming his ambassadorial role in March 2023, Mr. Rudd had publicly expressed disdain for the former president in various tweets. Despite this, he receives strong support from key Labor figures, while the Coalition shifts its stance on supporting him.
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When questioned about keeping Ambassador Rudd in place under a Trump administration, Foreign Minister Penny Wong affirmed their support.
She highlighted Mr. Rudd’s effectiveness in his role and the positive contributions he has made to advancing Australia’s interests in the U.S., including his work on AUKUS.
Despite earlier statements of support for Mr. Rudd, some Coalition members, including Peter Dutton, seek to distance themselves from their previous backing, citing challenges posed by Mr. Trump’s remarks.
Despite conflicting statements, it is important for Australia to maintain a positive relationship with the United States, especially given the current geopolitical climate.
Dutton Claims Earlier Backing ‘Misrepresented’
Statements made by Peter Dutton in the past are revisited, with the opposition leader highlighting Mr. Dutton’s previous positive comments about Mr. Rudd. However, Mr. Dutton now claims he was misunderstood and reaffirms the importance of supporting the ambassador for the country’s benefit.
Mr. Dutton emphasizes the need to address concerns raised by Mr. Trump and hints at potential challenges for Mr. Rudd in repairing the relationship.
While some Liberal Party members share Mr. Dutton’s stance, others have criticized Mr. Trump in the past, highlighting potential conflicts within the party. Former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull even mimicked Mr. Trump in front of the press gallery.
Labor Were Divided Over Appointment
Despite strong Labor support for Ambassador Rudd, there were internal divisions within the party regarding his appointment. Senator Wong was reportedly among those who opposed his selection.
On the other hand, Queensland Nationals senator Matt Canavan offers to leverage his connections to improve diplomatic ties if needed, citing Mr. Rudd’s past comments as a point of concern.
The fate of Lord Kim Darroch, the UK’s Ambassador to the U.S. in 2019, serves as a cautionary tale for Mr. Rudd. Despite Labor’s steadfast support, an ambassador’s position can be fragile, especially in the face of political turmoil.
