ABC Election Coverage Sparks Backlash from Panelist Tony Barry and Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price.

ABC's election night coverage was criticized by panelist Tony Barry, who called it "unwatchable drivel" and lacking in data, analysis, and insight. Barry also blasted the entire broadcaster, suggesting it should be "burned to the ground." Meanwhile, Coalition Northern Territory senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price criticized the media during an ABC interview, accusing them of mudslinging and referencing a Christmas photo of her wearing a "Make America Great Again" cap.

The 2025 Australian federal election night coverage by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) has faced significant criticism from various quarters, highlighting the ongoing debate over media bias and political influence. Tony Barry, a prominent panelist, labeled the coverage "unwatchable drivel," criticizing its lack of data, analysis, and insight. Barry's scathing remarks have sparked a broader discussion about the role of media in elections and the need for objective reporting [1].

In a separate development, Coalition Northern Territory senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price criticized the media during an ABC interview. Senator Price accused the media of mudslinging and referenced a Christmas photo of her wearing a "Make America Great Again" cap. The senator's remarks underscore the growing tension between politicians and the media, with Price arguing that the media's scrutiny of her personal life was unfair and misleading [2].

The ABC's election night coverage has been a subject of controversy for years, with critics arguing that it often leans towards one political side. The network's chief elections analyst, Antony Green, has been a figure of debate, with some praising his objectivity and others questioning his political leanings. Green's final election night coverage last night marked the end of an era, and his departure has left a significant void in Australian election analysis [1].

The 2025 election results have been a disaster for the Coalition, with leader Peter Dutton set to lose his own seat. Former journalist Ali France is on track to win Dutton's seat of Dickson, with early analysis projecting a probable win for the Labor candidate [3]. The Coalition's defeat has been attributed to various factors, including internal divisions, policy missteps, and a lack of effective leadership.

The media's role in elections is complex and often contentious. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the need for objective and fact-based reporting becomes increasingly important. The criticism of the ABC's coverage and Senator Price's accusations highlight the challenges faced by media outlets in maintaining their credibility and impartiality.

References:
[1] https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-05-04/australia-elections-antony-green-prime-ministers/105237300
[2] https://www.news.com.au/national/federal-election/senator-jacinta-nampijinpa-price-rejected-she-should-wear-any-blame-for-the-coalitions-defeat/news-story/bf2496efd8da903cc0fd4a9597789de2
[3] https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14674789/election-results-sore-loser-Jacinta-Price.html