Liberal frontbencher announces exit ahead of NSW election

James Griffin, a prominent Liberal frontbencher and former shadow energy minister, has announced his departure from politics ahead of the upcoming New South Wales (NSW) election, marking a significant shift within the opposition coalition. The announcement comes just six months before voters go to the polls, raising concerns over the Coalition's ability to hold its current seats amid growing challenges from both the ruling Labor government and the rapidly expanding One Nation party. Griffin, who once positioned himself as a potential future leader of the Liberal Party, cited personal reasons for stepping down, though his exit is widely viewed as a reflection of the party's broader struggles. Griffin served as the opposition's energy spokesman and had previously held the seat of Manly, a marginal northern beaches constituency that has become increasingly competitive. His decision to retire adds pressure on Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane, who is already grappling with internal divisions and declining public confidence in her leadership. The Manly electorate, which overlaps with the federal seat held by independent Zali Steggall since 2019, is one of 13 Coalition-held seats with margins under 5 percent, making it particularly vulnerable to shifts in voter sentiment. In a formal statement released on Tuesday, Griffin described his tenure in parliament as a defining period of his life, emphasizing the value of his contributions to policy and governance. He expressed concern over the rise of populist movements on both sides of the political spectrum and urged politicians to resist divisive rhetoric in favor of pragmatic leadership. “I have given this job everything I have, and it is time for the next chapter,” Griffin said, highlighting his belief in the importance of the “sensible centre” of politics. Griffin’s legacy includes advocacy for voluntary assisted dying and efforts to reduce the number of poker machines in NSW, issues he claimed were still unresolved despite his efforts. While he acknowledged that these causes might continue to be championed by other members of the party, he emphasized that his departure would not mark the end of such initiatives. His comments underscored a sense of disillusionment with the current trajectory of the Liberal Party, particularly following the removal of former leader Mark Speakman earlier this year. The timing of Griffin’s announcement coincides with an ongoing inquiry by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), which has scrutinized allegations of corruption involving Liberal officials and their alleged acceptance of bribes from developer Jean Nassif. These revelations have further eroded public trust in the party, contributing to a decline in its polling figures. Recent surveys indicate that the Coalition holds a primary vote of 23 percent, placing it third behind Labor at 29 percent and One Nation at 25 percent, a drop of 12 percentage points compared to the 2023 state election. Kellie Sloane responded to Griffin’s departure with a statement expressing gratitude for his service and acknowledging his commitment to the party’s values. She praised his approach to politics, describing him as someone who brought “good humour, decency and respect for others.” Despite her appreciation, Sloane recognized the implications of Griffin’s exit, stating that she understood his need to pursue a different path after nearly a decade in public office. Griffin’s decision highlights the precarious position of the Liberal Party as it prepares for a critical electoral contest. With internal discord, external pressures from emerging political forces, and a tarnished public image, the Coalition faces an uphill battle to maintain its grip on power. The loss of a high-profile moderate figure like Griffin may further complicate the party’s strategy, especially in electorates where its presence is already tenuous. Griffin’s successor in the Manly seat will inherit a challenging task, requiring a strong campaign focused on maintaining the “Manly brand of optimistic Liberalism” that Griffin had promoted. Whether this approach can resonate with voters remains uncertain, particularly in light of the broader trends shaping the political landscape in NSW. As the election approaches, all eyes will be on how the Coalition navigates these obstacles and whether it can regain momentum in the final stretch.