Premier announces former federal Bass MP will make state stand

The former federal MP Bridget Archer is keen to bounce back from last month’s election loss after flinging her hand up for preselection as Tasmania hurtles towards an election.

Former federal Bass MP Bridget Archer set to run in state election for Liberal Party in Bass. Picture: NewsWire/ Scott Gelston

Premier Jeremy Rockliff was alongside former Bass federal member Bridget Archer who announced her preselection for the northern Tasmanian seat as both major parties gear toward another state election.

Ms Archer lost her federal seat in May to newcomer, Labor’s Jess Teesdale. Mr Archer had a rare two-term run in the renowned spot.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff and former federal Bass MP Bridget Archer. Picture: Alison Foletta

Mr Rockliff said he was pleased Ms Archer was willing to put her hand up for preselection to be endorsed by the Liberal Party to stand at the next state election.

“An election that I did not want, Tasmanians did not want and Tasmanians cannot afford,” he said.

Mr Rockliff confirmed he would still lead the party.

Ms Archer said despite the “bruising” from the federal election, she was motivated by Dean Winter’s “power grab” to stand.

After Thursday’s harrowing no-confidence motion against Mr Rockliff, he has been under pressure to resign, but instead is preparing to call an early election.

The no-confidence motion was lead by Labor leader Dean Winter over debt issues, privatisation and TT-Line debacle.

Mr Rockliff is expected to remain in the top job until budget is passed in Parliament next week.

The last state election was just 14-months ago when the Liberal scraping in to power with a minority government.