News
24 October, 2024
Candidate says ‘nasty’ attacks won’t stop her
LNP Pumicestone candidate, Ariana Doolan, has responded to critics after facing an orchestrated online and in-print campaign, aimed at undermining her candidacy by focusing on her age and living arrangements.
At just 22, Ms Doolan stands to become the youngest woman ever elected to the Queensland Parliament if she successfully unseats the incumbent, Ali King MP, in Pumicestone.
Ms Doolan (pictured) spoke out against not only the media attacks but also the inappropriate conduct she has encountered at polling booths. She has described an incident during the first day of pre-polling, where the sitting member allegedly confronted her, questioning her experience, beliefs and political affiliations.
Ms Doolan described the interaction as “nasty” and expressed her shock at the behaviour of adults in these situations.
Despite these challenges, Ms Doolan remains focused on her campaign, emphasising that integrity and a genuine concern for the community matter more than experience.
“It’s just being kind and caring about the community—it’s not about how much they’ve done, it’s about someone putting their hand up and having the energy and enthusiasm to advocate on behalf of the community,” she said.
“That’s way more important than experience.”
Addressing concerns about her age and living situation, Ms Doolan said she is comfortable discussing these topics, noting that they seem to be issues raised by her political opponents rather than by the electorate itself.