MEMBER for Mildura Ali Cupper, who appears destined to lose her seat to The Nationals after one term in office, has lamented her loss at the polls but has a “firm plan” to run at the next state election.
Ms Cupper, who is trailing The Nationals’ Jade Benham by just 1026 votes in the two-candidate preferred vote, also took a swipe at the National Party’s “lacklustre record” in the region.
“Losing an election sucks, especially when it’s by just a handful of votes,” Ms Cupper posted on Facebook.
“My predecessor (The Nationals’ Peter Crisp) knows that feeling,” she said.
“But he lost after 12 years and a lacklustre record. I lost after four years and a bloody awesome one.It doesn’t seem fair.”
Ms Cupper said her team had worked “so hard” and achieved much.
“If only we’d been able to capitalise on that momentum for the next four years … if only.”
“I’ve said those words a million times since 9pm last Saturday night.
“But the first rule of politics is it will break your heart. I knew that going in. I accept the losses, just as I accept the wins.”
Ms Cupper said The Nationals had talked “a big game” to win back the seat and if they could not deliver on their promises, should be held to account.
“That’s my job,” she said, adding that she had “a firm plan to be on the ballot in 2026”.
“As much as I’m enjoying a much-needed break, when it comes to changing the game in the Mallee, this girl’s not going anywhere.”
