Everyone is talking about Albanese’s selfie with Trump. What was the PM thinking? | Tom McIlroy
News Source
•Thu, 24 Sep 2026 04:15:07 GMT
📰 What Happened
Anthony Albanese has posted another smiling selfie with US President Donald Trump. It was taken on the sidelines of the United Nations general assembly in New York.
Many Australians reacted angrily online. Critics said the Prime Minister was being far too friendly with a leader many voters dislike and distrust.
Trump remains unpopular in Australia, even though the government sees close US ties as vital to trade, defence and technology rules.
🔍 The Backstory
Albanese first shared a selfie with Trump at the UN in 2025, after a planned meeting fell through. At the last election he campaigned against his opponent being too close to Trump.
A July poll by the US Studies Centre found only 16% of Australians thought Trump's return was good for the country. Nearly a third said it was very bad.
Albanese argues US ties help on Aukus submarines and on rules for social media and AI. Analysts say balancing this will keep getting harder.
🎯 Why It Matters
Photos send political messages. The reaction shows how hard it is for Australian leaders to work with a US president many voters dislike.
Anthony Albanese has posted another smiling selfie with US President Donald Trump. It was taken on the sidelines of the United Nations general assembly in New York.
Many Australians reacted angrily online. Critics said the Prime Minister was being far too friendly with a leader many voters dislike and distrust.
Trump remains unpopular in Australia, even though the government sees close US ties as vital to trade, defence and technology rules.
Albanese first shared a selfie with Trump at the UN in 2025, after a planned meeting fell through. At the last election he campaigned against his opponent being too close to Trump.
A July poll by the US Studies Centre found only 16% of Australians thought Trump's return was good for the country. Nearly a third said it was very bad.
Albanese argues US ties help on Aukus submarines and on rules for social media and AI. Analysts say balancing this will keep getting harder.
Photos send political messages. The reaction shows how hard it is for Australian leaders to work with a US president many voters dislike.