Pauline Hanson has asked her fellow One Nation Senator Brian Burston to attend Donald Trump's inauguration on her behalf after saying she was too busy with state election campaigns to take up a "gifted" invite to the event.
Senator Hanson revealed on Monday morning she had been given an invite to the inauguration on January 20, but said she was unable to attend.
"Because of work commitments I'll not be attending Donald Trump's inauguration. My duties to the people of Queensland and Australia come first," she tweeted.
One Nation are running candidates in both state elections expected this year. Senator Hanson has been touring Queensland and has recently been in Western Australia, but following the latest politician expenses scandal surrounding former Health Minister Sussan Ley she has insisted she was not touring simply to campaign.
She also insisted Senator Burston will pay his own way to the United States.
Senator Hanson and her party have been vocal in their support for Mr Trump, holding celebratory drinks outside of Parliament House when he was elected.
A number of performers including Elton John have turned down invitations to perform at the inauguration. So far New York dance company the Radio City Rockettes, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and 3 Doors Down have said they would be performing.
US media have reported the parade is expected to last 90 minutes and tens of millions have been set aside for the celebration. Mr Trump is then expected to host three inauguration balls.
Tom Barrack, who is the chair of the Republican leader's inauguration committee, said it would have a more "poetic cadence" rather than a "circus-like celebration" surrounded by A-listers.
Here's a timeline of @PaulineHansonOz's trip to Donald Trump's inauguration pic.twitter.com/xSsp9vokui
— Charles Croucher (@ccroucher9) January 16, 2017
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said he will not be going, but a Department of Foreign Affairs spokesperson has told the ABC US Ambassador Joe Hockey will be attending.
