LIKE a phoenix rising from the ashes, Peter Draper’s political resurrection has begun.
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Speaking exclusively to The Leader yesterday, the popular former independent MP-turned-driving-school-instructor laid out his platform ahead of the March 28 poll.
Attack rival and sitting MP Kevin Anderson for his lack of delivery – check.
Ratchet up the rhetoric over the state government’s position on mining in the Liverpool Plains, bulk water prices and the looming sale of poles and wires – check.
Of course, the luxury of independence affords pollies like Mr Draper the opportunity to skewer the government on issues safe in the knowledge they will never have to defend unpopular policies themselves.
That aside, Mr Draper – a shrewd campaigner who has eight years’ experience on the crossbenches – has chosen his battleground issues well.
Mining is, and will remain, a hot-button topic that cuts to the quick of the region’s history and identity.
The looming sale of poles and wires could be even more damaging for regional MPs.
With cost of living sure to be an election issue, the prospect of higher power bills and poorer service in the bush is fertile ground for scaremongering.
When Mr Draper was unceremoniously booted from office in 2011, independents were a brand tarnished by Tony Windsor’s controversial decision to help federal Labor form a minority government.
But the appetite for independents is growing again.
This election will be a mouthwatering contest between two very strong campaigners.
Mr Draper is under no illusion as to how tough it will be.
The Nationals are desperate to retain the seat and will no doubt roll-out the pork barrels and the advertising dollars.
Mr Anderson has kicked some goals in recent months and his vote will be somewhat insulated by the popularity of Premier Mike Baird.
Irrespective of the result, we should all be grateful Mr Draper has committed to run again.
As Tamworth knows from experience, a competitive seat is a comfortable seat.
Let the games begin.