Why the ‘woke’ don’t like Peter Dutton

Peter Dutton ranks high in most lists of unlikeable politicians, and the reasons for the widespread dislike are multifaceted. Here’s a breakdown of why many people harbour negative views toward him. This isn’t an exhaustive list, nor does it imply universal dislike, but it captures recurring themes:

Divisiveness and Harsh Rhetoric

Dutton’s political style could best be described as aggressive and polarising. He has a tendency to frame issues in stark “us vs. them” terms, a tactic likened to Donald Trump’s playbook. For instance, his 2024 call to ban Gaza refugees, citing security risks, was labeled “inherently racist” by Independent MP Zali Steggall and “the most divisive leader of a major political party in Australia’s modern history” by Treasurer Jim Chalmers. His past comments – like claiming Victorians were too scared to eat out due to “African gangs” (2018) or suggesting that allowing Lebanese refugees into the country in the 1970s were a mistake – fuel perceptions of fearmongering and racial dog-whistling. He stokes division rather than fostering unity, a sentiment echoed in X posts calling him a “low-energy individual” thriving on negativity.

Controversial Policy Positions

Dutton’s policy stances alienate progressive and moderate voters. His push for nuclear power – proposing seven government-owned plants – draws ire for its cost (estimated at $116–600 billion by critics) and impracticality, with experts like the CSIRO arguing it’s decades away from viability. His rejection of the Indigenous Voice to Parliament in 2023, despite bipartisan origins, and his 2008 walkout from the Stolen Generations apology (later called a “mistake”) paint him as out of touch with reconciliation efforts. Posts on social media platforms and articles in independent media highlight his environmental rollbacks – like defunding the Environmental Defenders Office – as pandering to mining interests, further frustrating climate-conscious voters.

Reputation from Ministerial Tenure

His 20+ years in politics, including roles as Home Affairs and Health Minister, carry baggage. In 2015, Australian Doctor magazine polled over 1,100 doctors, with 46% voting him the worst health minister in 35 years, citing underfunding and mismanagement. As Home Affairs Minister (2017–2021), he oversaw Operation Sovereign Borders, deporting thousands but also drawing human rights critiques – like the Australian Human Rights Commission’s warning that his citizenship-stripping laws risked statelessness. High-profile interventions, such as saving au pairs for connected mates while rejecting asylum seekers, feed accusations of cronyism and hypocrisy.

Personal Image and Past Actions

Dutton’s stern demeanor – often mocked as Voldemort-like – and blunt delivery don’t win charm points. Incidents like texting “mad fucking witch” about journalist Samantha Maiden (accidentally to her, 2016) or joking about Pacific nations’ rising sea levels (2015) cement a perception of insensitivity. His Queensland Police background (1990–1999) during a notoriously corrupt era adds a layer of distrust for some, speculating it shaped his authoritarian streak. His refusal to apologize for much beyond the Stolen Generations walkout reinforces an unyielding image.

Media and Cultural Backlash

The progressive-leaning commentariat and social media amplify these gripes. Outlets like Independent Australia catalog his “85 reasons” for unfitness, from racism to misogyny, while X posts rail against his “white supremacist ideals” or “Trump-like” tactics. His 2025 insider trading scandal – alleged share dealings before a policy shift – has fueled corruption narratives, though unproven as of now. This resonates with voters already skeptical of politicians.

The Why, Critically Examined

The dislike isn’t just personal – it’s structural. Dutton’s brand thrives on a shrinking conservative base, clashing with Australia’s growing multicultural, urban reality. His policies and rhetoric seem tailored to exploit anxiety, not solve it, which grates on those craving optimism or nuance. Data backs this: Labor outpolls the Coalition on hope and empathy, while Dutton’s gains come from anti-Labor fatigue, not policy love. Whether this reflects genuine unfitness or a media-amplified caricature is debated – but the visceral rejection from many is palpable, rooted in his record and style.

So in a nutshell: He’s not very likeable.

 

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