Big name Liberal MP to quit politics after he was at the centre of row over bombshell texts about Scott Morrison

Liberal frontbencher Paul Fletcher has sensationally announced he will step down from politics before the next federal election.

Mr Fletcher, who was Communications Minister under Scott Morrison, has represented the electorate of Bradfield, on Sydney’s leafy North Shore, since 2009.

The outgoing MP, whose resignation will put pressure on the Liberal Party to retain control of his marginal seat, said representing Bradfield had been a privilege.

Mr Fletcher will reportedly enter the private sector after his time in Canberra.

“Innovation is healthy, for people and institutions, and now is the right time to pass on the baton,” he said in a statement on Tuesday.

“I will continue to serve my constituents in Bradfield for the remainder of this parliamentary term. I will also remain committed to electing a Liberal Dutton government.”

While Bradfield has long been considered a blue-ribbon seat for the Liberals, Fletcher almost lost it in the 2022 election.

There was a big swing against him after self-employed Nicolette Boele entered the race.

The current Opposition Business Manager denied speculation he would resign over concerns he may not be able to retain his seat at the next election.

Speaking to Bradfield Liberal Party members, he said he is confident the Coalition will retain the electorate at the election.

“My decision is emphatically not due to any lack of confidence about our prospects of retaining Bradfield,” Mr Fletcher said.

“On the contrary, I believe we are in a very good position to not only retain Bradfield, but also improve our 2022 result.

Mr Fletcher was at the center of a text messaging scandal that rocked the previous Liberal government led by former Prime Minister Scott Morrrison.

He was forced to deny leaking text messages exchanged with former NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian, who was critical of Morrison.

The texts, which described Mr Morrison as a “psycho” and a “fraud”, were attributed to a former minister who had served in Morrison’s government.

When asked if he was responsible for leaking the messages, Fletcher said “no.”

Mr Fletcher was at the center of a text messaging scandal that rocked the previous Liberal government led by former Prime Minister Scott Morrrison (pictured)

The Liberals now hold Bradfield to a margin of 4.2 percent.

Ms Boele has launched a new campaign to win the seat in the federal elections taking place in May next year.

Mr Fletcher previously won the seat at the last election after registering 54.2 per cent of the vote.

“While we are not taking anything for granted during the campaign, the local mood is clearly different than in 2022,” Fletcher said.

“I expect that a number of outstanding people will put themselves forward as the next Liberal candidate for Bradfield, and serve the people of Bradfield with energy and dedication.”

Mr Fletcher was first elected to parliament after a by-election in 2009, sparked by the retirement of former opposition leader Brendan Nelson.

After Malcolm Turnbull became Prime Minister, Mr Fletcher was appointed Minister for Territories and Local Government and later for Urban Infrastructure.

He was a prominent minister in Scott Morrison’s government, first as minister of social services and later as leader of the communications portfolio.