Abortion, again, threatens to bring Crisafulli’s careful plan unstuck
Sydney Morning Herald
by Matt DennienFebruary 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
In the second year of their first term, the Liberal National Party (LNP) in Queensland is grappling with a growing ideological divide, particularly over abortion. Premier David Crisafulli has historically avoided such contentious issues, but recent events have thrust the LNP into the spotlight, revealing internal tensions. Anti-abortion groups have amplified debates by highlighting private statements from party members, leading Labor to accuse the LNP of planning to roll back abortion reforms. Crisafulli has dismissed these claims as a "scare campaign," but the issue has sparked broader public debate and strained party unity.
At the center of the controversy is Robbie Katter, leader of the Katter's Country Party, who has been vocal in challenging the LNP's approach to abortion. Katter's efforts have reignited public discourse on the matter, despite failed attempts to block parliamentary debates on the issue. Meanwhile, One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has also joined the fray, further complicating the political landscape. These divisions come as Crisafulli faces declining support in polls, raising questions about his ability to maintain party cohesion.
The abortion debate is just one of several challenges facing the LNP. The state's corruption watchdog has raised concerns over changes to donation laws, and committees are addressing issues like gun control and antisemitism. Meanwhile, the government's focus on youth offender policies and fuel price caps continues to draw criticism from opposition parties. As Crisafulli navigates these complex issues, his carefully crafted plans may be at risk of unraveling.
This political turmoil matters globally as it highlights the fragility of governing coalitions when faced with deeply divisive social issues. The LNP's struggle to maintain unity underscores the broader challenges of balancing ideology, pragmatism, and public opinion in modern democracy. With key legislative decisions looming, the outcome of this ideological battle could reshape Queensland's political landscape—and Crisafulli’s plans—forever.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/13/2026