There's disappointment for ACT members who hoped high-flying Auckland City Counciller Cameron Brewer would take a tilt at the party's leadership, and its sole seat of Epsom.
Since Mr Brewer declined to take a shot at the Auckland Mayoralty, there has been speculation about his ambition on the national political stage.
But if he takes a tilt at the Beehive, it won't be with ACT.
“It’s nice to be speculated about, but I think it’s more important to now give the community some certainty about my intentions," Mr Brewer told NBR this morning.
“I will not be seeking the candidacy to be the next ACT MP for Epsom," he said.
“I’ve been a member of the National Party since 1996, and that is where my political loyalties remain."
He added, “I am also completely committed to local ratepayers. Let’s not forget that only a few weeks ago I was sworn in for a second term as a councillor. Forcing a costly council by-election would not be popular. I have had a lot more local support to remain at Auckland Council fighting for ratepayers than tearing off to Wellington.
“I am also completely committed to spending time with my wife and eight-year-old daughter in the next few years, and I know just how hard parliament is on families.”
Chris Keall
Thu, 05 Dec 2013
Thu, 05 Dec 2013
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ACT candidacy in Epsom: Brewer puts it in black-and-white
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