Liberal Party Plunged into Chaos as Shadow Minister Clare Chandler Resigns
In a dramatic escalation of the Opposition's internal crisis, Shadow Cybersecurity and Science Minister Clare Chandler has abruptly resigned from the Liberal Party front bench. This move throws the party into fresh turmoil, coming less than 24 hours after former Shadow Defence Minister Angus Taylor's sensational departure on Wednesday night.
Exodus of Taylor Loyalists Underway
Clare Chandler, a Tasmanian Senator and long-time conservative faction operator, was a key ally of Angus Taylor. Daily Mail Australia understands that an exodus of Taylor loyalists is now in motion, with several more frontbenchers preparing to abandon their posts in the coming hours. This wave of resignations is strategically timed ahead of a leadership challenge against Opposition Leader Sussan Ley, spearheaded by Taylor, which could occur as soon as today.
Momentum Builds for Leadership Challenge
Political editor Peter Van Onselen of Daily Mail Australia commented on the unfolding situation, stating it is difficult to envision Ley surviving this challenge. "It's all about building momentum for Angus Taylor’s challenge," he said. "It's actually the same playbook Tony Abbott used to blast out Malcolm Turnbull as opposition leader back in 2009."
However, Van Onselen noted a new tactic in this instance: "But this time the added tactic is getting women MPs and Senators to lead the charge, in a bid to overcome the perception that the boys club is rolling the first female leader of the party." This strategy explains why figures like Sarah Henderson and Jane Hume have recently called for change, and why Zoe McKenzie is emerging as a likely running mate for deputy in Taylor's bid.
Uncertain Future for Sussan Ley
Despite these maneuvers, the effectiveness of this approach remains uncertain. Van Onselen added, "Either way it's very hard to see Sussan Ley surviving this looming challenge, even though Taylor asks as many questions as he answers." The resignations signal a deepening rift within the Liberal Party, with more developments expected as the leadership contest intensifies.
