A Liberal Legend’s Surprising Stance: Philip Ruddock’s Endorsement of Tina Brown

Introduction to Philip Ruddock: A Liberal Stalwart

Philip Ruddock, a towering figure in Australian politics, has spent an impressive 43 years serving in the federal parliament. His distinguished career includes a stint as a minister in the Howard government, a tenure as the president of the Liberal Party’s NSW division, and, until last year, the role of mayor of Hornsby Shire Council. Ruddock’s deep-rooted connection to the Liberal Party and his contributions to public service have earned him immense respect within the party and the community. However, his recent actions have sparked controversy and disappointment among some Liberals, particularly in the affluent upper north shore of Sydney. Ruddock’s decision to appear in a video endorsing Tina Brown, a Climate 200-backed candidate challenging Liberal MP Julian Leeser in Berowra—the seat Ruddock once represented—has been perceived as a betrayal by some within his party.

The Backstory: Ruddock’s Falling Out with Local Liberals

The tension between Ruddock and his local party colleagues has been simmering for some time. After serving as mayor of Hornsby Shire Council since 2017, Ruddock sought another four-year term but was ousted in a preselection contest last year. Ruddock attributed his defeat to the influence of property developer interests, a claim that underscored his growing frustration with internal party politics. This setback seems to have strained his relationship with the Liberal Party, leading to a series of events that have further alienated him from his former colleagues.

Ruddock’s Endorsement of Tina Brown

In a move that has raised eyebrows, Ruddock recently appeared in a video with Tina Brown, who is running against Liberal MP Julian Leeser in Berowra. Brown, often described as a “wannabe teal” candidate, is challenging Leeser in a seat that has historically been a safe Liberal stronghold. For a Climate 200-backed candidate like Brown, who is trying to make inroads in a traditionally blue-ribbon seat, Ruddock’s endorsement is a significant coup. The video, which was filmed in Ruddock’s front yard and featured on Brown’s social media channels, highlights the importance of protecting Hornsby’s trees—a cause close to Ruddock’s heart.

The Motivation Behind Ruddock’s Stance

Ruddock has been clear about his motivations for supporting Brown. He emphasized his deep dedication to preserving Hornsby’s trees, a cause that holds personal significance for him. His father, Max Ruddock—also a former state Liberal minister and Hornsby mayor—had initiated tree preservation orders, which Ruddock has long championed. As a former mayor, Ruddock feels a strong sense of responsibility to protect the environment he has served for so many years. While some have interpreted his support for Brown as a reflection of his growing estrangement from the Liberal Party, Ruddock has been quick to clarify that he remains a Liberal Party member and is not directly involved in Brown’s campaign.

Family Ties and Political Fallout

The fallout from Ruddock’s endorsement has not been limited to his relationship with the Liberal Party. His wife, Heather Ruddock, has also been drawn into the controversy. Disillusioned by her husband’s treatment during the preselection process, Heather Ruddock has left the Liberal Party and is now actively supporting Brown’s campaign. While Philip Ruddock has not officially joined Brown’s campaign, his subtle gestures—such as liking some of her LinkedIn posts and contributing to her local newspaper, The Post—have not gone unnoticed. These actions have only intensified the perception that Ruddock’s loyalty to the Liberal Party is waning.

The Bigger Picture: A Shift in Political Loyalties?

Ruddock’s endorsement of Brown is not just a local political skirmish; it reflects broader shifts in Australian politics. Climate 200, the organization backing Brown, is part of a growing movement of centrist, environmentally focused candidates challenging traditional Liberal strongholds. These candidates, often dubbed “teal independents,” are gaining traction in affluent, educated areas like the upper north shore of Sydney. Ruddock’s willingness to support such a candidate underscores the growing divide within the Liberal Party between its traditional base and those who prioritize environmental and social issues.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Service and Controversy

Philip Ruddock’s decision to endorse Tina Brown has undeniably stirred up controversy within the Liberal Party. While some see it as a betrayal, others view it as a testament to his unwavering commitment to the causes he cares about, particularly environmental preservation. As the political landscape continues to evolve, Ruddock’s actions serve as a reminder that even the most dedicated party loyalists can find themselves at odds with the organizations they’ve served for decades. Whether this marks a turning point in Ruddock’s relationship with the Liberal Party—or simply a passionate stance on an issue close to his heart—remains to be seen.