‘Good man’ Abetz backs me: Duniam
Liberals’ promoted candidate hoses down any hint of disunity
ERIC Abetz has remained mum on Saturday’s shock decision by party preselectors to drop him to third place on the Liberal senate ticket.
But the young blood who has taken his place – 38-yearold Jonno Duniam – insists the veteran senator has “absolutely” taken the news well and is “very pleased for me”.
Senator Abetz told the Sunday Tas- manian he “ac- cepted the decision” but has since remained out of contact for further comment.
Senator Duniam said he spoke with Senator Abetz, 63, after the results were announced at Campbell Town, where a group of 67 party members met on Saturday afternoon to decide on the ticket for the next half-Senate election due in 12 months. “Eric is a seasoned professional, a strong community advocate and a good man,” Senator Duniam said. “He was very pleased for me and very pleased to be working with me to make sure we return three Senate seats at the next election.” The number three spot is considered a risky position and potentially unwinnable, but it is expected the Liberals will win a trio of seats at the election.
That sentiment was reinforced by Senator Duniam, who said he was confident the party would pick up the seat of Lyons in addition to holding the seats of Bass and Braddon.
But the father of three, who once worked for Senator Abetz, dodged questions about whether he thought the powerbroker had lost points because of claims aired in parliament.
In March, Senator Abetz was accused by former Speaker Sue Hickey, speaking in parliament, of slut-shaming Brittany Higgins, with Ms Hickey calling for him to be disendorsed.
Senator Abetz said he “categorically denied” the claims.
“Look, that is something you’d have to ask the preselectors,” Senator Duniam replied when questioned on the topic. “Though what I picked up when I spoke to all members of the preselection panel was that they were focused on making sure we won the next election.
“They were asking me about what I would offer, how I would handle myself on the campaign trail, what my priorities were.
“Evidently they endorsed what I had to say and I’m pleased about that.”
“I do have a great proven track record. I am focused on the future, I am someone who is approachable and that I can believe can win votes.”
Launceston-based senator Wendy Askew, placed second on the ticket, was in transit on Sunday when approached for comment.