Angus Taylor, Sussan Ley face off, spill motion successful, Jane Hume to run for deputy leader
Although we are not yet sure of the final number of today’s vote, many MPs have already announced their decisions. Challenger Angus Taylor can count the following people in his column.
Claire Chandler, Matt O’Sullivan and Phil Thompson (who, along with backbencher Jess Collins, officially requested the leak) were the first to rescind support for Ley.
Party heavyweights Jonno Duniam, the opposition home affairs spokesman, Paterson, the former finance spokesman, and party Senate leader Michaelia Cash also followed.
Backbencher Jane Hume said Taylor had the right character to lead and put her hand up for her deputy. Former energy spokesman Dan Tehan has resigned from the shadow party and will also be vying for the deputy role.
The then shadow private secretary James McGrath was another significant resignation because he had voted for Ley last time.
Sussan Ley has fewer vocal supporters.
Shadow attorney general Andrew Wallace, opposition immigration spokesman Paul Scarr and shadow deputy minister for women Maria Kovacic have repeatedly endorsed the leader, arguing that he had not been given enough time for the job.
Shadow education Julian Leeser backs him, saying Ley showed great leadership in defending the Jewish community after the Bondi attack.
Ley’s camp also includes assistant Ted O’Brien and points man Alex Hawke.
