Rishi Sunak faces intense backlash from voters today as the Conservatives endure significant setbacks in the Blackpool South by-election, coupled with early losses in local councils.
Prime Minister braces for a challenging day as election outcomes continue to pour in, notably with Keir Starmer’s victory in the Lancashire constituency. Chris Webb secures a remarkable 26% swing, clinching the seat in a striking blow to the Conservatives, who narrowly edged out Reform for third place.
This marks the seventh parliamentary seat lost by the Tories in by-elections since Sunak’s assumption of office in October 2022, with six now claimed by Labour, suggesting a potential path to Downing Street for Sir Keir.
In council races across England, Labour celebrates significant wins, including the historic victory in Rushmoor, formerly under Conservative reign for nearly a quarter-century.
Sir Keir’s momentum continues with triumphs in Hartlepool and gains in critical election battlegrounds like Thurrock and Redditch.
Meanwhile, Tories concede control of North East Lincolnshire amidst a dismal election outcome unfolding under Sunak’s watch.
Amidst the setbacks, the Conservatives manage to retain control of Harlow, earning praise as “the biggest comeback since Lazarus” by local MP Robert Halfon. However, calls for Sunak’s resignation intensified, signalling that his leadership may be on borrowed time.
