A doctor who tore up her membership with The Greens following Saturday’s surprise by-election defeat says there’s a clear divide in the party.

Dr Sarah Russell told Tom Elliott there was a “real division” between activists and those seeking to become “career” politicians.

Dr Russell resigned on Sunday after Alex Bhathal failed in her bid to claim the seat of Batman.

Dr Russell told Tom Elliott she was bitterly disappointed and that there were those inside The Greens who actually wanted her to fail.

“Alex has worked so hard for The Greens,” she said.

Dr Russell said there was a clear factional divide in the Darebin branch.

“There’s no doubt,” she said.

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