The Wagga Wagga-based MP and Veterans Affairs Minister is the only declared candidate to take over from Barnaby Joyce.

Mr Joyce is stepping down following intense scrutiny over his extra-marital affair, related propriety concerns and a separate sexual harassment claim.

Barring any surprises, Mr McCormack will be appointed the new Nationals leader and deputy prime minister at a meeting of all Nationals MPs and senators in Canberra this morning.

No other candidates
Junior minister and Member for Lyne David Gillespie considered running, but said yesterday the numbers were against him.

"I am aware of the simple rules of politics and that is arithmetic," he said. "I thought at this stage it's best if I get behind whoever the party chooses."

The Member for Gippsland and dumped cabinet minister Darren Chester had earlier ruled out contesting the leadership. Agriculture Minister and Member for Maranoa David Littleproud was canvassing support but has also pulled out.

In a statement released late last night, Mr Littleproud said he was humbled by the "significant support" he had received from colleagues, but, "will not be contesting the leadership".

"Now is not the time for internal contests. Now is the time for all individuals to be team players," Mr Littleproud said.

"It is time for The Nationals to get behind Michael McCormack as leader and focus on delivering for regional Australia together."

Other Nationals MPs endorsed Mr McCormack ahead of the party room meeting this morning.

"I'll be voting for Michael McCormack, I think he'll be a fantastic new leader for the Nationals," Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt said.

"He's a pretty solid performer," said the Member for Mallee Andrew Broad. "He's got good values and he'll be a team player."

Deputy Nationals leader Bridget McKenzie will remain in her position, with no moves to change other roles within the party.

Both Bridget McKenzie and Nationals Whip Michelle Landry had hoped the leadership ballot would only have one candidate to ensure a smooth transition.

According to Mr Gillespie, a contested ballot was never going to happen. "We always end up in consensus mode, that's what we do in the National Party," he said.

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