Liberal Senator Sarah Henderson expressed doubts about the Coalition's ability to recover under Sussan Ley’s leadership as the party prepares to finalize its stance on net-zero emissions targets.
Following two weeks of internal conflict and intense leadership speculation, Henderson admitted she could no longer support continuing with the current state of affairs ahead of a crucial party room meeting.
“I do have to say really honestly, I do think Sussan is losing support,” Henderson told Sky News. “But I do believe in miracles.”
When asked if the party could turn itself around with Ley in charge, Henderson paused before reiterating her inability to back the status quo.
“I'm not in the business of throwing anyone under the bus, I'm stating the bleeding obvious, we are in a dire situation,” she said. “The infighting has been terrible and I'm terribly sorry about what's been going on in the Liberal Party.”
Senator Henderson, who was removed from the shadow cabinet after Ley became leader, praised Ley for initiating a series of meetings.
“Calling a series of meetings is a significant step forward in deciding a policy position on energy and climate,” she commented.
Author's summary: Senator Henderson openly doubts Sussan Ley’s leadership amid damaging party infighting but acknowledges recent efforts toward policy clarity on climate and energy.