Matt Canavan and Kevin Hogan have put their hands up for the leadership of the Nationals after David Littleproud’s shock resignation, blindsiding colleagues. The right-wing senator and deputy leader are among several contenders expected to contest a leadership election before the end of the week.
Littleproud announced his resignation after question time on Tuesday, saying he was “buggered” and lacked the energy to continue. He intends to stay in politics and recontest his Queensland seat of Maranoa at the next election, but did not rule out serving in a shadow ministry under the next leader.
The Nationals are at a critical juncture, facing a resurgent One Nation that is outpolling them in many rural and regional areas. The Coalition’s popularity against Pauline Hanson’s party will be tested at the Farrer byelection on 9 May. Littleproud conceded last week that the Nationals could run last in that contest.
Former leader Barnaby Joyce, who defected to One Nation in December, blamed Littleproud for the party’s “existential crisis”. Other contenders for the leadership include Senate leader Bridget McKenzie and former leader Michael McCormack, setting up a potential four-horse race.
