Roger Cook will be the state’s next premier with Rita Saffioti to become Deputy Premier.

WA Deputy Premier Roger Cook will be the state’s next Premier after Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson confirmed she has withdrawn from the leadership contest — leaving Cook to become the 31st Premier of Western Australia.

Speaking at a press conference this afternoon, Roger Cook was joined by Rita Saffioti.

Cook started the press conference by paying tribute to departing Premier Mark McGowan following his unexpected resignation on Monday, before reinforcing the state government’s commitment to keeping the economy strong and serving the people of WA.

“We have led a government that has been economically strong and socially progressive, and this will not change. I want to continue along this path,” Cook said.

“Together we are ready to be the next premier and deputy premier of Western Australia. I’m ready to lead. I’m ready to be premier.”

More to come.

It’s a new day in WA

Watch: Roger Cook and Rita Saffioti Press Conference

Feature image: Source: AAP Image/Richard Wainwright

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