A Return to Politics

Federal Senator and Sky News host Amanda Stoker returns to the political fray by contesting Queensland state seat Oodgeroo in this year’s October 26 election. Mark Robinson will retire from the seat, with Stoker hoping to carry the Liberal National Party banner and secure that seat and return to the public service​.

Oodgeroo is considered a safe conservative seat with Robinson maintaining it since 2009, offering Stoker a good opportunity to once again re-enter the political fray. A campaign focused on local concerns such as improving health at Redlands Hospital, addressing youth crime, and providing affordable housing for Queensland families define Stoker’s, “I want our community to feel safe, with opportunities for local jobs and reliable healthcare,” she said, reflecting her focus on regional development​.

From Federal Senate to State Politics

Stoker’s period of service in the Australian Senate between 2018 and 2022 has given her that required experience in federal politics. Known for her conservative stances, the most significant of which involves a strong voice against pro-life concerns, Stoker is poised to shift her law and mass media expertise to state governance. Joining to run for Oodgeroo marks Stoker’s launch into local politics where she finds a necessary way of touching the grassroots, issues of concern to the community, directly.

Campaign Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite contesting a relatively safe seat, Stoker admits that there are issues for the LNP in Queensland. The state government headed by Labor’s Steven Miles is still tough to beat, but the mood among the voters suggests increasing demand for change. David Crisafulli, LNP leader, said he was confident of Stoker’s experience and ability to get the results, adding that the party was committed to winning public trust ahead of the election​​.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Stoker

Amanda Stoker’s campaign to win Oodgeroo is a second chance at politics and a change to mold policy closer to the community. With balancing grassroots campaigns and statewide initiatives, it will be interesting to see how Stoker would contribute to solving some of the common issues: crimes, healthcare, and house shortages.

The election on October 26, 2024, is the day that will go either way for Stoker’s career that’s actually shifting from being in federal politics to state politics. Given the stakes involved, observers have held their breath with Oodgeroo as the state readies for a deciding weekend of elections.

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