ACT Liberals Leader Elizabeth Lee Apologizes for Gesture

Elizabeth Lee, the leader of the ACT Liberals, faced backlash after giving a journalist the middle finger following a press conference just days before the ACT elections. This incident occurred during a tense exchange with reporter Ian Bushnell, who questioned her about her party's policy costings. After the incident, Lee acknowledged her unprofessional behavior and apologized, expressing disappointment that her actions could set a poor example for her daughters. She emphasized her respect for journalistic work and her willingness to engage with tough questions, despite the history of strained interactions with Bushnell. The ACT elections are imminent, with the Canberra Liberals previously securing 33.8% of the vote in 2020, trailing behind ACT Labor's 37.8%. Lee's tenure as opposition leader began in 2016, and she has highlighted the challenges of media relations within the political landscape.