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Brian Mitchell backs Rebecca White for Canberra in potential Lyons showdown

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White is popular in Lyons, current MP Brian Mitchell said. Image / Pulse

Former Tasmanian Labor leader Rebecca White is reportedly considering a bid for the federal seat of Lyons at the next election, with current MP Brian Mitchell expressing his full support for her potential candidacy.

Mitchell, who has held the seat for three terms, said that while he was happy to run again, he would not stand in White’s way if she decided to seek preselection.

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“Rebecca and I have worked together for many years. We’re good friends. But most importantly, she’s a terrific local member,” he said.

“If Bec makes herself available to run for federal office, I fully support that. I think she would be a terrific addition to the federal and Labor parliamentary ranks.”

Mitchell described White as a “once-in-a-generation talent”, adding he was personally excited at the prospect of her joining the federal Labor Party ranks.

Brian Mitchell expressed full support for White’s potential candidacy. Image / Pulse

“Rebecca is obviously very popular in Lyons for the right reasons, because she’s a terrific local politician,” he said.

“She has wonderful skills as a campaigner, but also she’s a very practical, hard-working person.”

Labor currently holds Lyons by a slim margin of 0.92%.

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If White chooses to run, she is expected to face Liberal candidate Susie Bower, who narrowly missed out on the seat in 2022.

However, the potential run would be a change of heart for the MP who entered state parliament in 2011 and became Labor leader in 2017.

Rebecca White entered state parliament in 2011 and became leader in 2017. Image / Pulse

During a debate in the 2024 state election, White was asked if she would consider a federal run for Lyons should Labor lose a third consecutive state election.

Her response at the time was a firm “No”, accompanied by a chuckle as the audience applauded.

“I’m really privileged to represent my electorate of Lyons. I’m asking for their support again and if I’m elected to represent them, that’s my job and I’ll do that with honour,” she said.

White has yet to comment on the possibility of her candidacy.

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