Last man standing Dutton to contest for leadership
OUTGOING Defence Minister Peter Dutton has emerged from the wreckage of the Liberal election campaign as not only the most likely but virtually the only candidate to take over leadership of the party.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison conceded defeat on Saturday night and announced he would resign from the leadership, clearing the way for candidates from within the party to step up.
But the most likely contender, outgoing Treasurer Josh Frydenberg, looked almost certain to lose his Melbourne seat of Kooyong to teal independent Monique Ryan, leaving Mr Dutton as almost the last man standing.
He has privately indicated to colleagues he will throw his hat in the ring.
Insiders have mentioned outgoing Energy Minister Angus Taylor, Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews and Trade Minister Dan Tehan as other contenders, but they are not considered a genuine threat to Mr Dutton.
Senator Hollie Hughes said: “Until we have a field of candidates I don’t know who the leader will be, but I can only assume Peter Dutton is in the ranks.
“He is an absolute star performer and a terrific Defence Minister.
“He, like Scott, has been unfairly maligned but those of us who know him know what an amazing guy he is.”
The former Queensland policeman has been tough with China and strong on immigration and reflects Liberal Party values that have been rejected by voters to teal independents in a swath of previously blue ribbon seats.
Multiple senior Liberals told News Corp they believed the rejection of the Coalition by female voters highlighted the need to promote more women through the ranks to better reflect the Australian public.
Former Liberal foreign minister Julie Bishop told Nine: “Women did not see their concerns and interests reflected in a party led by Scott Morrison in coalition with Barnaby Joyce.”
Senators Jane Hume and Anne Ruston have been discussed as potential deputy leaders of the Liberal Party.