Former McKinsey Consultant Emerges as Candidate to Contest Former PM’s Seat

Kennedy has previous voiced his support for vaccine and lockdown critics.

Federal Liberal candidate for the seat of Cook, Simon Kennedy, (left) speaks to media with outgoing member Scott Morrison, at Cronulla Pavilion in Sydney, Australia on March 5, 2024. AAP Image/Dan Himbrechts

The resignation of former Prime Minister Scott Morrison has set in motion a by-election in the Sydney shire seat of Cook with consultant Simon Kennedy selected to try and retain the Liberal Party stronghold.

The 41-year-old Mr. Kennedy, a former partner at McKinsey and Company, was installed as the candidate after winning 158 votes during a pre-selection process, achieving an absolute majority, and easily beating three other candidates including Sutherland Shire Mayor Carmelo Pesce with 90 votes.