Pentecostalism and the LNP’s fight for its soul in Queensland’s Darling Downs

The seat of Groom has been held by conservatives since federation, but Labor and independent candidates have shaken up the race this election

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A bastion of conservative Christian politics, the electorate of Groom has become a frontline in the battle for the soul of the Coalition.

And while religion barely rates a mention in the official campaign for Groom, there are concerns about the rising influence of pentecostalism, which could explain why the second safest seat in the country has suddenly become seen as one to watch.