[2] He resigned in 2019 to contest the Legislative Assembly seat of Ballina, but was defeated by the incumbent Greens MP Tamara Smith.

In January 2017, Franklin was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Renewable Energy and Northern NSW.

[10] In the aftermath of the 2023 New South Wales state election, Franklin controversially decided to run for President of the Legislative Council, which would mean that the Nationals would have one fewer seat on the floor of the chamber.

Adding to the controversy was Franklin's personal friendship with NSW Premier Chris Minns, despite political differences.

[11] Amid the tensions, Paul Toole lost his leadership role to Dugald Saunders.