An independent Upper Hunter councillor has performed a swift political reversal, withdrawing his request to join Pauline Hanson's One Nation party less than a week after announcing his application.
A Swift Change of Heart
Councillor Troy Stolz, a known advocate for whistleblowers, publicly declared on January 2, 2026 that he had sought membership with One Nation. His decision stemmed from mounting frustration with Australia's two major political parties, the Liberals and Labor.
Stolz identified the final catalyst as bipartisan support for recent gun law amendments following the Bondi terror attack. He labelled the legislative changes a "knee-jerk" reaction, arguing Parliament should not be sitting until 3am to pass laws affecting law-abiding firearm owners.
Policy Misalignment Leads to Withdrawal
However, by January 7, 2026, the councillor had already withdrawn his membership bid. Stolz stated he was "not fully comfortable" with all of One Nation's policies and crucially, felt the party would not back his core advocacy areas.
"I think the best place for me, is as an independent," Stolz concluded. He expressed doubt that One Nation would support his driving missions of gambling reform and enhanced whistleblower protection.
His initial interest was in seeking pre-selection to run for Parliament under the One Nation banner, targeting either the New England seat federally in 2028 or the state seat of Upper Hunter in 2027. He had believed he lacked the "resources or reach" to be effective as an independent candidate.
Broader Political Discontent and One Nation's Rise
Stolz's political journey highlights a growing discontent with the major parties. He previously ran as an independent against Premier Chris Minns in Kogarah during the 2023 state election, claiming both Labor and Liberal have "lost their way."
His criticism of the gun laws echoed sentiments from other political figures. New England MP Barnaby Joyce, who recently left the Nationals, argued that disarming farmers was not a solution to broader security issues.
Despite Stolz's withdrawal, One Nation claims its support is surging. A party spokesperson said membership has quadrupled since the 2025 federal election, with national polling indicating around 18% support. The spokesperson highlighted the Hunter Valley as a particular stronghold, where voters are concerned about the future of the coal industry.
Before his change of heart, Stolz himself had remarked that One Nation was "on the rise" and in sync with community desires. His rapid reversal now leaves him firmly back in the independent camp, navigating the turbulent waters of regional New South Wales politics on his own terms.
