Part 12/15:
Adding an international dimension, details emerged of a clandestine meeting between former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and then-President-elect Donald Trump at his Florida golf club in January. Although publicly described as a "secret," Mick Mulaney downplayed the secrecy, describing the venue as open and accessible, not hidden or secure.
The significance of this meeting is debated. While some speculation suggests it indicates high-level engagement between Australia and the Trump transition team, Mulaney pointed out that the lack of ongoing communication or high-level diplomatic dialogue post-meeting is more concerning. The prime minister at the time, Anthony Albanese, has been criticized for not establishing more direct and continuous contact with President Trump.