Joyce has repeatedly rejected criticism that it was toxic to the Liberal Party brand in metropolitan areas, which he says is evidenced by the fact that he was asked to campaign in various Liberal seats in NSW and Queensland.
Joyce is expected to use his party’s best performance at the polls than the Liberals in a bid for an additional position in opposition. He confirmed to The Age and Sydney Morning Herald that he would offer it to Darren Chester.
National MP Darren Chester will challenge Barnaby Joyce for party leadership. Credit: Simon Schluter
Joyce previously fired Chester from the front seat after regaining the lead in 2021, in a move seen as a punishment for Chester’s support of former leader Michael McCormack.
Several National Party MPs confirmed that the two leading rivals have barely spoken since Joyce defeated McCormack.
On Thursday, Chester, who represents Gippsland headquarters, said she would challenge Joyce for her main job in a party hall vote Monday.
“We have to be honest with each other in the party hall and take some responsibility for the liberal losses in the city,” he said.
“The way we develop our policies, convey our message and work with our coalition partners in the future will determine whether we can return to government and offer to the regional communities.”
If successful, Chester, who is considered a moderate voice in the party room, said she would also offer Joyce a seat in the front seat.
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Victorian Nationals leader Peter Walsh, who is close to Chester, said his federal colleagues will decide on leadership early next week.
Walsh said he hoped Deputy Leader David Littleproud and former leader Michael McCormack would also be nominated for leadership positions.
“I think whoever you choose will do a very good job on behalf of the regional Australia,” he said.
Three national MPs, speaking on condition of anonymity, said they also expected Littleproud to present a challenge.
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