Victorian Liberals Can't Stay on Track Amidst Deeming Infighting

The Victorian Liberal Party appears incapable of maintaining focus, even when significant electoral gains seem within reach. The party is once again mired in internal disputes, largely centered around the controversial upper house member Moira Deeming, which threatens to derail their efforts ahead of the November state election.

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I expect and I think the team expects action to be taken.

This latest chapter in the "Doings of Deeming" saga follows a tumultuous period. Previously, a controversy surrounding Deeming's appearance at an anti-trans rally, which attracted neo-Nazis, led to the resignation of then-leader John Pesutto. Pesutto subsequently lost a defamation case brought by Deeming, embroiling the party in costly legal battles.

More recently, Deeming lost her preselection but was reinstated after the replacement candidate encountered issues. The current conflict stems from Deeming's accusation of assault against former leader Matthew Guy. She alleged Guy placed her in a "headlock" at a community event, an incident captured on video where Guy appeared to be drawing her closer to speak over noise. Police investigated and found no offense had been committed.

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I think any good person would have apologized.

Despite the police finding, Deeming has refused to apologize to Guy, who has demanded one. She later claimed to have misunderstood the "technical meaning" of "headlock." Shadow Attorney-General James Newbury has foreshadowed consequences, stating, "I think any good person would have apologized." Speculation is rife that Deeming will be deselected, though the party fears such action could turn her into a martyr for her supporters. There is also speculation she might defect to One Nation, a move that could present further complications for the Liberals.

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Who knew there was a "technical" definition of headlock, outside wrestling and the like?