Michael McCormack has survived a leadership challenge by Barnaby Joyce after the former leader mounted a frenzied, but ultimately unsuccessful, campaign to take back his old job.
A spill for the leadership was called on Tuesday morning after Bridget McKenzie’s resignation as deputy leader created a vacuum for Mr Joyce to challenge for the top job. David Littleproud was elected as the former deputy's successor after fending off challengers David Gillespie and Keith Pitt.
Following the announcement, Mr McCormack said his party was moving forward as a united front, and promised his party was focused on delivering for Australia’s regions. The leader of the Nationals said he did not expect another move from Mr Joyce in the near future, insisting “I’ve shook hands with Barnaby and we’re going to move on”. New deputy leader David Littleproud also assured Australians it was "now back to business”.
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