Goldsmith weighing a run in sacked challenger's 'beautiful seat'
New Zealand politician Paul Goldsmith has confirmed he will run for his current seat in Epsom rather than contesting the Kaipara ki Mahurangi electorate. His decision follows speculation regarding his political future amid shifting party polling.
Why it matters
Electoral strategy and seat selection are critical for maintaining parliamentary majorities in New Zealand's political system.
<p>National's Paul Goldsmith will not contest Chris Penk's Kaipara ki Mahurangi seat after floating the idea following the incumbent MP's sacking for challenging the Prime Minister and subsequent exit from politics.</p> <p>His office confirmed he ruled out the run in a statement to 1News this afternoon. </p> <p>The veteran National list MP's own position in Parliament remains in doubt as his party's expected vote share falls to well below what it was three years ago, leaving him reliant on retaining Epsom, or a high enough list placing to return.</p> <p>Goldsmith said he had "inadvertently put off a lot of speculation" by describing the seat as beautiful, but confirmed he would stand in Epsom.</p> <p>"It is a beautiful seat. But I am standing in Epsom. It's my home.
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