Kemi Badenoch Advances in Tory Leadership Contest

Kemi Badenoch has surged to the forefront of the Conservative Party leadership race, narrowly defeating Robert Jenrick with 42 votes to his 41, while James Cleverly was unexpectedly eliminated with 37 votes. Supporters like former minister Steve Baker praised Badenoch as 'authentic' and a passionate advocate for conservative principles, emphasizing the need for the party to reclaim disillusioned voters. Iain Duncan Smith also endorsed her, asserting she could restore the party's core values and learn from past electoral failures. The leadership contest reflects a broader desire for renewal within the party following significant electoral setbacks. A final vote among around 150,000 party members is scheduled from October 15 to November 2, where Badenoch is currently favored to win. This contest has highlighted the ideological divisions within the party as it seeks to redefine its direction.