Part 10/12:
This internal contest is about much more than climate policy; it is about the future economic strategy of the nation. Many within the coalition argue that imposing higher energy costs and pursuing aggressive emissions reductions at this juncture could accelerate economic decline, especially when large emitters refuse to bear similar responsibilities abroad.
The potential for a coalition fracture is high. Should moderates push back against the Nats' hardline stance, the party could face resignations or even electoral issues at the next election. Historically, such internal fights have come at a political cost but have also served as catalysts for policy shifts that realign party fortunes.