Gisele Kapterian, the tech executive backed by former NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian, has won the preselection for the blue-ribbon Liberal seat of Bradfield, beating prominent anti-Voice campaigner Warren Mundine. Kapterian triumphed convincingly, securing 207 votes to Mundine's 171 after just one round of voting. Her selection over Mundine and cardiologist Michael Feneley, who garnered only 16 votes, positions her as the party’s candidate to retain this pivotal seat against the teal independent Nicolette Boele, who dramatically cut the seat's margin from 16.6 percent to just 4.2 percent during the last federal election.
Kapterian, seen as the moderate choice, expressed her gratitude to the retiring incumbent, Paul Fletcher, for his fifteen years of service to the community. She stated, "Paul has served this community with distinction for 15 years, and has been a diligent and determined fighter for the needs of the people of Bradfield ..." emphasizing Fletcher's dedication and significance to local issues. She also outlined her vision for the campaign, focusing on reducing cost-of-living pressures and supporting small businesses, claiming, "There is a lot at stake for our community at the coming election ... another three years of the Albanese Labor Government will decimate family budgets ..."
Warren Mundine's bid had considerable backing from the conservative wing of the Liberal Party, including figures like former Prime Minister Tony Abbott. Despite losing, he congratulated Kapterian by stating, "Congratulations to Gisele and let’s win the seat," indicating his support for party unity. Mundine has been vocal about his political stances, often expressing dissatisfaction with the Labor Party, from which he distanced himself more than a decade ago. He claimed to have the ability to connect with voters traditionally less aligned with the party, asserting he is "not beholden to factions or people behind the scenes." The comments reflect his commitment to individualism within his political platform.
The backdrop of this preselection battle was significant, as it underscored the internal struggles within the Liberal Party between moderate and conservative factions, particularly as they gear up for the upcoming May election. Notably, Kapterian's backing from prominent moderates, including Deputy Liberal Leader Sussan Ley, highlighted changing tides within the Liberal ranks. Ley described Kapterian as, "...more than able to serve in future high office" and praised her connection to the multicultural community, reinforcing Kapterian's image as a candidate relatable to the local electorate.
This preselection marks not only Kapterian’s rise within the party but also the challenge the Liberal Party faces as they contend with the increasing influence of independent candidates, particularly those from the teal movement who appeal to more progressive voters. Boele's previous performance, acquiring 20 percent of the primary vote, signals potential threats to traditional Liberal standings. Experts and party insiders have expressed concern over Mundine's conservative leanings possibly alienated portions of the electorate. With Bradfield hierarchically seen as safe territory for the Liberals, the shift could influence broader strategies.
The seat of Bradfield, which encompasses affluent suburbs like St Ives and Chatswood, was unique among Liberal-held constituencies by voting 'yes' during the Voice referendum, showcasing residents' ambivalence toward traditional Liberal ideologies. This divergence complicates the Liberal resurgence strategy, especially as they now grapple with shifting voter sentiments and the rise of independent candidates who capitalize on disillusionment with established parties.
Kapterian's strong performance serves not just as personal validation but as indicative of potential strategies the Liberal Party may adopt moving forward. Her win reflects not only the support of the party’s moderate wing but may also resonate with previously undecided voters eager for fresh perspectives on pressing issues like housing and inflation. Her assertive stances against what she termed the government’s "economic vandalism" align with broader concerns from the electorate. The coming months may prove pivotal for Kapterian as she gears up to face not just the Liberal internal dynamics but also formidable opponents like Boele.
The next steps for the Liberal Party, particularly following the tense preselection, prompt introspection on how best to navigate the complex waters of modern Australian politics. With the challenge of maintaining their position against the teal movement's growing influence, Progressive strains within the electorate may require re-evaluations of traditional Liberal values.
Looking at the broader picture, Kapterian's preselection win, supported by both moderates and some considerable right-wing backing, could signal toward the ways political parties must adapt to respond to changing narratives and aspirations. Only time will tell how effective these strategies will be against the backdrop of the upcoming election, underscoring the importance of tactical renewals based on the nuanced political climate.