As the UK approaches its first general election since 2019, the Conservative Party is facing a likely significant defeat. Long in power since 2010, the Tories are expected to suffer a substantial loss, driven by their departure from core conservative principles.
The Tories’ troubles began with Theresa May’s unsuccessful snap election in 2017, which nearly cost the party its majority. Her resignation led to Boris Johnson’s rise, who won a large majority in 2019 by promising to complete Brexit. However, Johnson’s broader agenda, which included high taxes and extensive government spending, clashed with conservative ideals.
The COVID-19 pandemic response, involving strict lockdowns and high expenditure, further alienated conservative supporters. Johnson’s eventual ousting, followed by Liz Truss’s short-lived premiership and Rishi Sunak’s succession, created further instability.
Sunak, with his background in finance and significant wealth, has struggled to resonate with working-class voters. His claims that inflation is “back to normal” have been criticized as detached from the reality of rising costs for everyday people.
Migration remains another critical issue where the Conservatives have faltered. Sunak’s plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda has been stalled by legal challenges, allowing right-wing parties like Reform UK to gain traction.
The party has also been plagued by scandals, such as “Gamblegate” and “Partygate,” further tarnishing its image. Sunak’s rain-soaked announcement of the general election symbolized the party’s dire situation.
Labour leader Keir Starmer is expected to secure a significant majority, leaving the Conservatives to reevaluate their direction. Discussions about changing leadership selection rules risk further alienating grassroots members.
To regain voter trust, the Tories must address key issues like taxes, spending, and immigration and acknowledge past mistakes. Ignoring public sentiment could lead to a prolonged period of political irrelevance.
