'Disappointed': Controversial senator explains leadership backflip

While Price had said she would run for deputy alongside Angus Taylor’s bid to become Liberal leader, the Northern Territory senator didn’t officially nominate for the role at this morning’s party room meeting.

Instead, Ted O’Brien ran against surprise candidate Phil Thompson, with the former comfortably winning the vote 38-16.

“I was contesting the position of deputy leader on a ticket with Angus Taylor, and given the outcome with respect to the position of leader of the Liberal Party, I chose not to contest the position of deputy leader,” Price said.

“I recognise that I am new to the party, and am grateful that our party is one that afforded me the opportunity to consider putting myself forward for the position of deputy leader in those circumstances.”

Price’s decision to leave the Nationals party room less than a week after the election ruffled feathers in the junior Coalition partner, with leader David Littleproud yesterday saying the decision was disappointing, and Matt Canavan going much further in his criticism.

“Jacinta Price’s decision to put her own ambition over the will of the voters is exactly why people are sick of politicians,” the Queensland senator said.

Today, Price congratulated Ley and O’Brien on their election, although admitted she was disappointed Taylor was not chosen to lead her new party.

“So while the outcome today is not the one that I would have wanted, it in no way lessens my commitment to the Liberal Party and the broader Coalition,” she said.

“Nor does the outcome lessen my resolve to rebuild and strengthen the Liberal Party.

“If the Coalition is to offer hope and a way forward for our nation, unity must prevail more within us now more than ever.

“That is why I will work with Sussan Ley and Ted O’Brien to ensure the Coalition is a formidable opposition to the Albanese Labor government, and presents a compelling alternative to the Australian public at the next election.”