View from The Hill: Could the return of Josh Frydenberg help the Liberals’ fortunes?
Most observers agree that Sussan Ley will eventually be pushed out by her party. The main question now is the timing of her departure. Despite many witnessing the harsh treatment of party leaders, the severity remains surprising.
Victorian senator Sarah Henderson, a right-winger and firm opponent of net zero policies, commented on Friday:
“I do have to say, really honestly, I do think Sussan is losing support. But I do believe in miracles, we can turn things around. I don’t support things the way they are at the moment.”
It seems unlikely that Henderson truly believes in a miracle, yet she stopped short of calling for a leadership spill at the next Liberal Parliamentary Party meeting. Removing Ley, the party’s first female leader, this year would be seen as inappropriate, and such an outcome is not currently expected.
Henderson’s criticism prompted the expected responses, with some colleagues publicly backing Ley. Angus Taylor, her main competitor, confirmed he is not challenging the leadership now. Jane Hume, who had criticized Ley after being overlooked for a frontbench position, expressed support:
“I think Sussan has been really consistent in her messaging since she was elected. She has wanted to lower emissions, but not at any cost.”
For now, the leadership remains unsettled as internal party dynamics continue to evolve.
Author's summary: Sussan Ley faces mounting internal party pressure, but her leadership remains intact for the moment amid mixed support and cautious optimism.