National MPs will be lobbied over the weekend as the beleaguered party tries to sort its leadership crisis in the cleanest possible fashion before Tuesday's expected leadership vote. Those touted as contenders are former leader Simon Bridges, first termer Christopher Luxon, long time aspirant Mark Mitchell and interim leader Shane Reti. MPs from the party's liberal wing Chris Bishop, Nicola Willis, and Erica Stanton have also been mentioned, possibly in deputy roles. Following the chaotic unravelling of Judith Collins leadership yesterday, sorting the new leadership team by negotiation advance of Tuesday's vote would be the ideal outcome for the bruised caucus and the tattered National brand. Kathryn speaks with political commentator Ben Thomas
Photo: RNZ
