Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price has confirmed she will run for deputy leader of the Liberal party, joining Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor's ticket.
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The move was widely expected after the shadow government efficiency spokesperson defected from the Nationals to the Liberals, causing ructions in the Coalition.
The Sunday morning announcement was accompanied with a video of the pair, where Senator Price describes Mr Taylor as her "mentor" and says there is the potential for the Liberal to "come back strong".
"We've got to regroup, rebuild and get back into the fight," Mr Taylor said.
Announcing her candidacy, Senator Price said the party needs to return to its roots, the basic values that define the party.
"We must once more remember and fight for the forgotten people, those on whose shoulders Australian society has been built and still depends," Senator Price said.
Senator Price pointed to her grandparents who saw a vision of a brighter future, including her Warlpiri grandparents who transitioned from nomadic life into Australian community life.
"They were the original Aussie battlers - the forgotten people," Senator Price said.
"Their courage to grab hold of aspiration with both hands has paved the way for a desert kid like me to put my hand up to lead."
Senator Price joins Shadow Treasurer Angus Taylor, who said the party must return to "sound economic management", national security, aspiration and a "vibrant private sector".
The Liberal Party will meet on Tuesday, May 13, to decide which team will lead it after its election drubbing.
Connor Pearce
Something to get off your chest? Connor.pearce@austcommunitymedia.com.au
