'Emulating Kamala Harris': Bernardi mocks Linda Burney with comparisons

Former South Australian senator Cory Bernardi criticizes Labor minister over Voice to Parliament, calls her "completely out of her depth."

Former South Australian senator Cory Bernardi has strongly criticized Labor minister Linda Burney for her handling of the Voice to Parliament. In an interview with Sharri Markson, Bernardi expressed his disbelief at the Albanese government's lack of understanding regarding the Voice and its capabilities. He described their approach as merely "putting out the vibe" and expressed his astonishment at respected individuals supporting this vague concept.

Bernardi specifically targeted Linda Burney, the Indigenous Australians Minister, and drew parallels between her and the gaffe-prone Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris. He questioned Burney's knowledge and suggested that she may be emulating Harris or drawing inspiration from past Labor figures who lacked understanding, such as John Kerin.

Bernardi did not hold back in his criticism, labeling Burney as "absolutely hopeless" and claiming that she is inadvertently benefiting the No campaign. He argued that the Australian public sees through the government's attempts to push the Voice referendum and believes they are being deceived. According to Bernardi, the government needs to learn a lesson in this referendum.

Minister Burney's credibility was further undermined when she confidently stated in Parliament that the Voice would not provide advice on changing Australia Day. However, Indigenous leaders and constitutional experts, including members of government advisory groups, quickly refuted this claim. It became clear that Burney's attempt to refocus the Voice debate by suggesting narrowed priorities was met with skepticism. Chriss Merritt from the Rule of Law Institute dismissed this approach, stating that attempting to dictate the Voice's focus would not be taken seriously.

Merritt humorously referred to Burney's claim as a "con," implying that it was misleading. He argued that it validated the criticism that the Voice would have a broad remit rather than addressing critical issues specific to Indigenous people. Merritt emphasized that legislation cannot rectify this problem, and the government's attempt to suggest otherwise only weakens their position and makes them appear deceitful.

In conclusion, Cory Bernardi's scathing criticism of Linda Burney and the Labor government's handling of the Voice to Parliament highlights the lack of clarity and understanding surrounding this proposal. The government's attempts to refocus the debate and address concerns have been met with skepticism and ridicule from experts in the field. The Voice referendum continues to face significant opposition and skepticism from the Australian public.