Monique Ryan, the Teal MP for Kooyong, has faced controversy following an incident involving her husband, Peter Jordan. Recently, footage emerged showing Jordan removing a sign that promoted Liberal candidate Amelia Hamer in inner Melbourne, which has since led to public scrutiny.
In the video, Jordan can be seen walking along the street with the sign under his arm while being approached by a man filming the encounter, who persistently questions his identity and motivations. Jordan claimed he removed the sign because it was illegally placed on public land, asserting that “anyone can take it down because it’s illegal”. However, he did not reveal his identity during the confrontation.
After the footage gained traction, Jordan issued a public apology, admitting that his actions were a mistake and stating that he should have reported his concerns to the local council instead of taking matters into his own hands. Ryan echoed this sentiment, acknowledging that the incident was inappropriate and should not have occurred.
The situation also sheds light on the evolving political landscape in Kooyong, especially given that Ryan’s victory over former Treasurer Josh Frydenberg in the previous federal election was significant, marking a shift in the traditionally Liberal-held seat. The ongoing tensions surrounding this incident reflect the competitive nature of the upcoming federal elections, as candidates and parties navigate increasingly charged political discourse. The sign removal incident not only highlights the personal stakes for those involved but also serves as an emblem of the broader electoral rivalries at play.