David Connolly will be the Northern Territory’s 24th administrator, paid $249,000. The Country Liberal Party government has now made him a formal candidate for the post. The subsequent nomination has sparked a firestorm of condemnation. Connolly’s divisive social media past includes a trove of laser-focused, often misogynistic attacks against women and people of color that Connolly has deleted. Despite the continuing outcry—largely expressed by women—Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro is rallying behind Connolly. She unquestionably believes he is the best person to lead the new territory.
Originally the former president of the NT Cattlemen’s Association, Connolly’s CV is impressive, but his social media profile is worrisome. He took aim at the new Prime Minister Anthony Albanese with racist and misogynistic comments. His posts went further into sensitive areas like “white privilege” and other inflammatory subjects. These ethical transgressions have led to increasing calls for Finocchiaro to withdraw her nomination.
Social Media Controversies
Connolly’s social media activity has come under fire since the announcement of his nomination. One especially inflammatory post calling Albanese the “biggest arsehole in the world.” Additionally, he shared a post about “white privilege,” describing it as “the ability to suffer life’s universal indignities without blaming another ethnic group.”
Additionally, his postings featured a disgustingly transphobic remark about gender identity to which he has since received widespread condemnation. He reposted a statement from Imane Khelif, which read: “Anyone claiming I’m a man & won the fight unfairly can suck my dick!” MAP-21 This resource-intensive content has put up dangerous warning bells among transportation, environmental and other community leaders and advocates.
Former ICAC head Geoffrey Watson SC said the situation highlighted how uncomfortable Connolly had made people with his online conduct.
“I’d be a little bit anxious about that having seen these social media posts.” – Geoffrey Watson
Watson made it clear that the new administrator position needs to be a model of leadership and integrity. Connolly’s history, he argues, cuts against these key traits.
Reactions from Community Leaders
Federal Sex Discrimination Commissioner Anna Cody has publicly expressed her concerns about Connolly’s suitability for the position. Justice Peters explained that his history of social media posts fails to exhibit the respect that’s required of women and all other marginalized classes.
“The concern with having social media posts which show disrespect is that those communities feel less valued and less welcome.” – Anna Cody
Cody’s tireless advocacy urged all to respect, value, and celebrate First Nations women, Indigenous Territorians, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. We all want to feel valued and recognized members of our communities. In the wake of recent national events, she stressed creating an inclusive space. The recent terror-inspired attack at Bondi Beach has exacerbated this need.
Support from Chief Minister
Inspite of all the heavy fire, Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro continues to double down on her controversial decision to appoint Connolly as administrator. She said she was certain he would remain focused on what is best for the territory.
“At the end of the day, we’ve selected someone who’s going to fight for the territory and put our economy first.” – Lia Finocchiaro
She reiterated her belief that Connolly would “put the territory first every single time.” This steadfast support leads one to believe that Finocchiaro will be immune to the legitimate concerns expressed by community leaders and advocates.
As Connolly looks toward his new role, he’s shown excitement for the work to come and what it will take.
“Don’t know why but I am really looking forward to it.” – David Connolly
