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Two potential candidates for the position of National’s deputy leader have emerged after Gerry Brownlee announced that he will step down today.
The National Party caucus Source: Getty
1 NEWS understands that Shane Reti and Michael Woodhouse may be in the mix to contest the position.
However, it is also understood that Mark Mitchell will not submit his name.
It comes as National Party leader Judith Collins told the media this week that she will seek to reorganize her front bench next week, with only Shane Reti safe in position.
Reti is National’s health spokesperson, a role he assumed in place of Michael Woodhouse.
Collins released a statement shortly after special voting came in today, praising Brownlee for his work as deputy leader.
“I would also like to thank Gerry Brownlee, who today confirmed that he will not seek re-election as vice president.
“Gerry took on the role under challenging circumstances earlier this year and gave it his all, such is his dedication to his colleagues and to the party,” he said.
Brownlee also released a statement along with her announcement.
“While I was proud to intervene at the time, and continue to be, I have always believed that influence is more important than position when it comes to politics,” says Brownlee.
“It is time to think about the next three years. I want Judith to have the strongest and complementary support by her side as a leader.
“My focus, going forward, will be to rebuild National’s base in Christchurch and represent our voters there.
“Consequently, I will not seek re-election as deputy leader when the Caucus meets on Tuesday.”
