Publican Andrew Lethlean has announced his intention to seek preselection as the National Party candidate for Bendigo East in the upcoming Victorian state election, confirming a challenge to incumbent Premier Jacinta Allan. Mr. Lethlean cited dissatisfaction with the current state government, outlining priorities such as public safety, education, health, and housing affordability.
Lethlean to Challenge Premier Allan in Bendigo East
Candidacy Announcement and Stated Priorities
Mr. Lethlean, a Bendigo publican, confirmed his candidacy on Saturday via social media, following months of speculation. In his statements, Mr. Lethlean expressed dissatisfaction with the current government, describing it as "city-centric" and stating that "things have to change."
"Things have to change."
He highlighted concerns regarding crime rates, the cost of living, and challenges faced by local businesses. His stated priorities, if elected, include public safety, education, health, and housing affordability. The preselection process for the National Party candidate is scheduled to close on April 9.
Bendigo East Electoral History
Bendigo East has been a Labor stronghold since 1999, the year Ms. Allan was first elected as the state member at the age of 25, taking the seat from the Liberal Party. Premier Allan was re-elected in Bendigo East with a 10.8 percent margin four years ago, and her government is currently seeking a fourth consecutive term in Victoria.
Lethlean's Previous Electoral Performance
Mr. Lethlean previously contested the federal seat of Bendigo in the 2022 federal election. In that contest, he secured 29.7 percent of the primary vote, while the Labor incumbent, Lisa Chesters, polled 33.6 percent. This outcome resulted in a narrow 1.4 percent margin for Ms. Chesters.
ABC election analyst Antony Green noted this as the largest swing against Labor nationwide during that election. This performance occurred amidst a national swing towards Labor.
Premier Allan's Response and Leadership Context
Premier Allan, who assumed the premiership in 2023 following Daniel Andrews' resignation, attributed the swing against Labor in the 2022 federal election to a "cashed-up National Party campaign," rather than local sentiment. She has dismissed recent speculation regarding her leadership, referring to it as "anonymous gossip."
Recent Polling Data
Polling data from the Resolve Political Monitor, collected over the first two months of this year, indicated Labor's primary vote at 28 percent. The same polling showed Premier Allan's rating as preferred premier at 20 percent, with a net satisfaction rating of -37. This marks her lowest preferred premier score since assuming office in 2023.
Prior Controversy
During his previous federal candidacy, Mr. Lethlean faced scrutiny when a bar he owned served alcohol despite its license being suspended. He attributed this to an "administrative oversight," which he stated was subsequently rectified.
Upcoming Election
Victorians are scheduled to vote in the state election in November.