Crack in rudder post

I discovered a nasty crack on the rudder post of my freedom 32. The Crack is only on one side of the post above the packing collar. I can’t understand how this would happen as there is no damage to the rudder. I’m thinking maybe the stops at the top above deck may somehow put too much strain and twist on the post, but there isn’t much force from the wheel. Has anyone had a similar problem. What was your repair process?

Pic of crack.
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