A South Australian Liberal candidate is no longer running for the seat of Wright after controversial comments he made on an American podcast surfaced this week. Carston Woodhouse, the party’s endorsed candidate, made the comments on the evangelical Christian podcast ElijahFire regarding topics including Islam, feminism, same-sex marriage, and what he termed the “trans agenda.”
Controversial Statements
The Labor party shared clips of the podcast on Wednesday, revealing Mr. Woodhouse stating that “feminism is demonic” and that “same-sex marriage isn’t real.” Further comments revealed by the ABC indicated Mr. Woodhouse described “Islam [as] poisonous and wrong” and expressed concerns about the “insanity of the trans agenda.” He also voiced opposition to a 2024 ban on the Nazi salute and swastika in South Australia.
Party Response and Candidate Status
At a press conference on Thursday afternoon, Liberal Leader Ashton Hurn stated that the candidate was no longer running for the seat, though she did not specify whether he was disendorsed or resigned. Ms. Hurn also confirmed that Mr. Woodhouse retains a contract with Liberal Party headquarters.
Liberal Party State Director Alex Hyde released a statement saying Mr. Woodhouse “agreed to withdraw his candidacy” after a discussion focused on the campaign’s priorities of affordability, healthcare, and crime. Mr. Hyde stated that Mr. Woodhouse “does not shirk from his deeply held views” and remains committed to the party’s success.
Internal Party Reactions
Federal Liberal Senator Alex Antic suggested that removing Mr. Woodhouse could jeopardize the election, stating, “if this guy is disendorsed…we might as well shut the doors on this election.” Ms. Hurn responded by saying she was focused on issues crucial to South Australians. Earlier in the day, Liberal MP Ben Hood indicated Mr. Woodhouse was still the candidate, stating the party welcomes people of all faiths as long as they support party policies.
Following Ms. Hurn’s announcement, Member for Wright Blair Boyer criticized the delay in addressing Mr. Woodhouse’s comments and questioned the appropriateness of his continued employment with the Liberal Party.
Frequently Asked Questions
What comments led to Carston Woodhouse no longer being a candidate?
Mr. Woodhouse made comments on the ElijahFire podcast describing feminism as “demonic,” stating “same-sex marriage isn’t real,” and expressing negative views on Islam and the “trans agenda.”
Did Ashton Hurn express support for Mr. Woodhouse’s views?
Ms. Hurn stated she did not agree with Mr. Woodhouse’s comments, but did not provide details on whether he was disendorsed or resigned.
Will Carston Woodhouse continue to be employed by the Liberal Party?
Yes, Ms. Hurn confirmed that Mr. Woodhouse still has a contract with the Liberal Party and that it will continue.
How will this situation impact the upcoming state election and the Liberal Party’s campaign strategy?
