David Speirs, the former leader of the Liberal Party in South Australia, has declared his intention to contest the upcoming state election, aiming to regain his former seat of Black in the southern suburbs of Adelaide. This announcement comes just ten months after he resigned from parliament and was convicted for drug offences, specifically for supplying a controlled substance, which resulted in a $9,000 fine. Speirs' conviction was a significant political setback, leading to a by-election that saw the Labor Party's candidate Alex Dighton secure victory in his former seat with a notable swing of 12.6% in November 2024.

Speirs' decision to run again has drawn attention as it raises questions about his political future and public perception following his legal troubles. The Electoral Commission of South Australia has indicated that Speirs will not qualify for public campaign funding due to his prior convictions. This factor could potentially impact his campaign's viability, as financing will be a crucial aspect of his efforts to re-enter the political arena.

The implications of Speirs' candidacy extend beyond his personal ambitions; they also reflect broader electoral dynamics in South Australia. His return to politics might energize certain voter segments while alienating others, particularly those concerned about his past actions. As the election approaches, it will be essential to monitor how this development influences both the Liberal Party's strategies and the overall electoral landscape in South Australia.