She might be one of Tasmania's most popular community members, but Jo Palmer's success in front of the camera doesn't mean she's a shoo-in to become a member of the Legislative Council.
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That's the view of political commentator Professor Richard Herr, who said high-profile candidates had tried and failed to enter Parliament before.
"John Remess was one, a newsreader who certainly has the same recognition Jo has," Professor Herr said.
"He was unsuccessful."
On Tuesday the Liberal Party endorsed Ms Palmer as its candidate to contest the upcoming Legislative Council election for the seat of Rosevears.
"It's not surprising that a prominent person like Jo Palmer would stand for the Upper House," Professor Herr said.
"People who fancy their chances and do have a local profile will come forward."
Professor Herr said Ms Palmer's decision to align herself with the Liberal Party could diminish her chances of success because, historically, Tasmanians had preferred to keep partisan politicians out of the Upper House.
"The electorate has occasionally supported individuals but the electorate simply hasn't been all that keen on it becoming a partisan house.
"There are people who stood for a political party in one election and then decided to stand as an independent for the Upper House. They saw the branding as probably an electoral risk."
Professor Herr said he credited Ms Palmer for being upfront about her reasons for joining the Liberals.
"She's taken the view that she would rather have the connection to government, and to be able to influence government policy, and take the risk that this may be a potential negative electorally," he said.
