Council & Politics
29 December, 2025
Libs in limbo
THE Liberal Party’s chosen candidate for the seat of Ripon has withdrawn from the race. Andrew Kilmartin was chosen by the Liberal Party state executive to contest Ripon in December, but mysteriously withdrew days before Christmas. His decision means the party will now run a new preselection process to find a candidate. It is understood at least two of the previously unsuccessful candidates will renominate – former Ballarat Mayor Samantha McIntosh and ambulance call-taker Nathan Anderson. It is unclear whether the other two unsuccessful candidates, Central Goldfields Mayor Ben Green and farmer Suzie Marro will contest the position a second time.
It’s understood local Liberal branch members want a local preselection contest this time instead of the decision being made by the state executive.
To be successful, 40 local branch members need to nominate to be part of the selection process.
The Advocate understands a new candidate will be in place in January.
The seat of Ripon will be a fascinating contest with numerous candidates expected to contest the seat.
Labor’s Martha Haylett holds Ripon with a 2.9% margin, however she faces a stiff challenge from numerous parties including the Liberals, Nationals, Greens, One Nation and Animal Justice.
Former Ararat Mayor Jo Armstrong is almost certain to be announced at the Nationals candidate in coming months.
Liberal Party headquarters again ignored our request for comment on the preselection process.