Speculation he could move to crossbench if appeal is unsuccessful as allies suggest he may run as an independent at next election

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The Liberal National party senator Gerard Rennick is appealing against his dumping from a winnable spot on the party’s Queensland Senate ticket.

Rennick lost the number three spot on the Queensland ticket to the party treasurer, Stuart Fraser, in a tight vote of the LNP faithful last week. The Guardian understands just three votes made the difference, with Fraser receiving 134 votes to Rennick’s 131.

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