Senator Jacqui Lambie has brushed off criticism from One Nation leader Pauline Hanson as both battle for a Tasmanian Senate seat.
The public spat escalated as Hanson campaigned for her daughter Lee, who is challenging incumbent Lambie in the federal election.
Speaking to Channel 7 on election night, Lambie distanced herself from the conflict, saying she was concentrating on her parliamentary responsibilities rather than One Nation’s commentary.
“I don’t run into the toxic stuff. I won’t do it,” Lambie said amid cheers from supporters.
“I wish everyone their very best of luck. It takes a lot of courage to run as a candidate.”
Hanson, 70, has been scathing in her criticism, this week telling news.com.au she’s “had enough” of Lambie “shrieking” in federal parliament.
“[She] votes constantly all the time with the Labor and Greens. She’s not a conservative,” Hanson said.
“She doesn’t care. I want to see her gone. A swing is on.”
Lambie said her focus remains on local issues including veterans’ affairs, controversy surrounding a proposed AFL stadium and the salmon industry.
“I haven’t thought about Pauline, I want to get my jobs done,” Lambie told 7.
“I wish Lee her daughter the very best, like every other candidate in the country. That’s the way to do things. That’s leadership.”
