Liberal Party Censors Candidate Attack in Victoria

0:00I'm Cory, and this is your Pulse of the City, Sydney News Today. The Victorian Liberal Party stepped into censor candidate statements during a tense pre-selection battle for upper-house spots in the Western Victoria, region ahead of the November state election. Challenger-managed Patel launched a harsh attack on veteran MP and upper-house leader Bev MacArthur, calling her unimpathetic, unprofessional, and irresponsible. MacArthur currently holds the top position on the ticket, which pretty much locks in her parliamentary seat. Party officials quickly republished the candidate booklet with Patel's comments removed after realizing they broke the rules on personal attacks. This came as several sitting MPs, including MacArthur, facetive challenges from newcomers like former Jolong Mayor Trent Sullivan. The mix-up has stirred up the pre-selection process, where delegates review profiles to pick the ticket. Some liberal MPs and members are furious about the original statements slipping through, calling it a sloppy distraction at a critical time.

1:01Critics points a falling party support in the region and lost seats under current leadership. Patel, who ran unsuccessfully for federal office in 2022 after migrating from India, also questioned the party's appeal to multicultural. Fodders? Meanwhile, the contest is heating up with big endorsements, like former premier Dennis Nathene backing Sullivan for the number one spot. He praised Sullivan's community record and leadership potential. Other candidates have echoed concerns about the party's direction in Western Victoria. The pre-selection convention wraps up at the end of the month, and party leaders say they're thrilled with the strong interest from potential. Candidates aiming to unseat the government. They'll emphasize positive pitches moving forward. The Daily News Now is grateful to our sponsor for today's episode. No need to switch positions. The sound is already where your head is. S-O-L-L-I-SoliPillow.com