A Liberal-turned-Independent MP who has been blamed for leading the state towards an early election has been defeated.
Lara Alexander defected from the Liberal Party alongside John Tucker last year due to concerns over Mariuns Link and a multi-purpose stadium at Macquarie Point.
Speaking to the ABC two hours after counting began, Alexander said she does not see the result as a defeat.
“Yes in numbers it is a defeat but for me, it has been an absolutely fantastic experience. I have enjoyed every minute of it,” she said.
“I feel like I was able to actually bring a different perspective to politics in general.”
“For me personally it has been an absolute blessing to have been in this position and opportunity.”
“Having been born in Eastern Europe, left 30 years ago, no family here in Australia apart from my husband who I met here in Australia, I consider myself a really lucky person to have had the opportunity to serve, even for a brief period of time in the Parliament and to represent my community.”
Alexander said she “stood firm” on her principles when she made the decision to quit the Liberal Party and hoped other elected independents would continue to hold the next government accountable.
“I hope that those people who are not in the major parties will show the same scrutiny that is necessary in order to make sure that money is not wasted, that a business plan and all that are actually done properly and with respect to the Tasmanian community and their needs.”
