Credlin and Clennell Clash Over One Nation Coverage
News24 hosts engage in an on-air dispute regarding political interview standards and editorial control.
1On-Air Host Confrontation
News24 host Peta Credlin and political editor Andrew Clennell engaged in a heated on-air dispute on Tuesday night. The conflict began when Clennell accused Credlin of failing to defend him against disparaging remarks made by One Nation national director James Ashby during a previous appearance on her program.
2Disputed Origins of Insults
Credlin challenged Clennell’s account, clarifying that it was actually One Nation leader Pauline Hanson who had used the derogatory term in question. She emphasized that she maintains editorial control over her show, rejecting Clennell’s attempt to dictate the segment's agenda or force a defense of his personal professional grievances.
3Ashby’s Role and History
Clennell highlighted that James Ashby, who is currently in charge of One Nation, has a documented history involving a conviction for making threatening and abusive phone calls twenty years ago. Clennell argued that Ashby’s current influence within the party warrants significant public scrutiny from journalists and media commentators alike.
4Canceled Interview Context
The tension escalated after Ashby canceled a scheduled interview with Pauline Hanson on Clennell’s show. This cancellation followed Clennell’s public critique of cartoons published by One Nation that allegedly depicted violence. Ashby communicated the cancellation via text, explicitly stating that Hanson was not interested in speaking with the journalist.
5Editorial Control Assertions
During the broadcast, Credlin firmly rebuked Clennell for attempting to hijack the show's opening segment. She asserted her authority as the program's host, stating that she decides the topics and the order of discussion. Credlin maintained that she respects Clennell, noting his nine-year tenure on the network as evidence.
6One Nation’s Growing Influence
James Ashby, formerly Hanson’s chief of staff, is increasingly viewed as the most powerful figure within One Nation. He is widely expected to contest the Queensland seat of Capricornia in the 2028 federal election. His frequent appearances on News24 have made him a central, often controversial, figure in political coverage.
7Pattern of Internal Friction
This incident is not the first time Clennell and Credlin have clashed regarding One Nation. Previously, Clennell questioned why the party received what he termed a leave pass after revelations concerning Victorian leader Warren Pickering. These recurring disputes highlight broader internal tensions regarding the network's editorial approach toward populist parties.
8Broader Media Landscape Issues
Beyond the host conflict, One Nation faces external pressure, including a cease and desist notice from the ABC regarding the unauthorized use of the character Bluey in their political cartoons. These developments underscore the complex intersection of political messaging, media scrutiny, and the evolving standards of professional political journalism today.