Why Campbell Newman’s return to LNP is a genius move

The return of controversial ex-Premier Campbell Newman to the LNP is a risky but smart move that may help the party finally unseat Labor, writes Peter Gleeson.

After years in the wilderness, the prodigal son, former premier Campbell Newman, has returned to the LNP fold.

That is a smart move by the LNP state executive, and acting president Cynthia Hardy is obviously hoping it helps her starve off a likely challenge from Lawrence Springborg.

But the horse has bolted on that.

Newman’s appointment to the state executive is a risk because Labor will use it to suggest the party is still stuck in the former premier’s era, which didn’t end well.

But the new-look and resurgent LNP under Springborg will benefit greatly from Newman’s capacity as fundraiser and steady hand.

Former Queensland Premier Campbell Newman will join the LNP executive. Picture: Lukas Coch

Newman acknowledges he would have done things differently during his three years as premier and he learnt much since then.

The reality is he was an exceptional Brisbane Lord Mayor and has much to offer the conservatives.

He is a straight shooter with an acute understanding of Queensland politics, and used wisely, he can add greatly to the LNP’s stocks.

Under Crisafulli, there’s a growing sense that the LNP grassroots want generational change and it is required if they are to ever beat a well-oiled electoral machine like the Labor Party.

Everybody rowing in the same direction has been Labor’s strength over the past 30 years.

The LNP can learn much from its discipline.

Today, a fascinating contest unfolded between the LNP senators James McGrath and Amanda Stoker for the prized number one spot on the ticket for the next election.

McGrath defeated Stoker 212 votes to 101.