In 1965, legendary American conservative publisher, author and television personality William F. Buckley Jr surprised the world by running for the mayoralty of New York City. It was described as a “quixotic” campaign and drew forth a curious response from Buckley when he was asked: “What is the first thing you will do if you win the election?” He replied: “Demand a recount!” Mercifully, my attempt to win the New South Wales state seat of Lismore at the…