Australian politician Dugald Saunders has resigned as leader of the New South Wales National Party, less than three years after taking the position, citing a need to focus on family matters.
According to reports from the New York Post, Saunders announced his sudden resignation on the morning of November 17, surprising colleagues. He stated that with multiple family members unwell, it was time to step aside to allow a new leader to prepare for the next election. “Over the past two and a half years, I have had the privilege of leading the NSW Nationals, but now it is time for someone new to take over. I thank my team and the party for all their support and will continue serving my constituents as a local MP,” he said.
However, media attention quickly turned to Saunders’ 19-year-old daughter, Charlie Saunders, who appeared the day before his resignation in the first episode of the adult-industry documentary Spicy Summer. In the show, Charlie revealed that she began creating content on OnlyFans after turning 18, saying, “I got inspired on TikTok, I create everything myself, and I’m happy to challenge all kinds of topics—I basically do everything I can.”
While the timing sparked speculation that her appearance may have influenced Saunders’ decision, a spokesperson for his electorate denied any connection, describing the resignation as a coincidence.
Following Saunders’ departure, the NSW Nationals swiftly appointed a new leader within 24 hours, selecting MP Gurmesh Singh from another electorate to take over the role.
