Federal independent MP Andrew Gee has blamed a recent social media faux pas on an inexperienced staffer. The incident involved a Facebook comment posted under Gee’s official account, which criticized his opponent’s tactics and praised Gee as “the good guy.” This blunder fell during a particularly acute period of campaign chaos. Gee, the former National Party Minister, is battling to retain his seat of Calare as an Independent after quitting the National Party in 2022.
Gee quickly walked back the remark. He emphasized that he does not accept or approve the actions of the staff member who created the post. The staffer involved has since acknowledged that their actions were “extremely disappointing and unacceptable.”
Campaign Controversy
The social media gaffe comes at a time when Andrew Gee has been vocal about the adversarial nature of the current election campaign. Gee has represented the New South Wales seat of Calare since 2016. Now, having left the Nationals in protest over their opposition to establishing an Indigenous Voice to Parliament, he faces his first election as an Independent. He has since termed the current campaign “the dirtiest and nastiest to date.” That’s perhaps the best part of this– his recognition of the shady bullshit being thrown at him.
“call out every single dirty, grubby tactic in this campaign” – Andrew Gee
Gee has a reputation for turning bad behavior directed at him to his advantage. His comments demonstrate his focus on transparency and accountability to voters during every stage of the electoral process.
Police Investigation
Apart from this social media hoo-haa, the police have been chasing reports of corflute thefts lately across central western townships. This injects yet another layer of drama into what is already a highly critical election atmosphere in Calare. Exactly how the thefts were performed remain under wraps. These missteps complicate matters for candidates in what Gee has sometimes called a “dirty” campaign, marred by unexpected challenges.
The Facebook comment, which impersonated a voter praising Gee, included sentiments against both the Nationals and another political group referred to as “the Teal mob.” The fake endorsements have raised new alarm bells about the negative tactics of Rep. Yet, contrary to his interview statements, Gee claims that he did not approve or authorize them.
Gee’s Political Journey
Andrew Gee’s political journey has been full of dramatic moments, from his resignation from the National Party in 2022. He departed in protest over the party’s direction on Indigenous issues. In the context of Australia, this was especially geared towards the Indigenous Voice to Parliament. Gee, as an Independent, is playing a very difficult political hand. He obviously is very intent on holding his Calare seat back.
Though advocacy is not without its hurdles, Gee is undeterred in his commitment to disrupting corruption in politics. His past calls for accountability have struck a chord with constituents who don’t want repugnant individuals representing them.
