Reform UK Hits Record 29% Support in YouGov Poll

Reform UK has seen a surge in both electoral support and party membership following recent local elections, reaching its joint-highest polling level at 29% and amassing 230,000 members. The party, led by Nigel Farage, gained control of 10 local councils, won more than 600 council seats, secured two mayoral victories, and captured a traditionally safe Labour seat in the Runcorn and Helsby by-election. These results have shaken the longstanding dominance of the Conservative and Labour parties, prompting concerns within both parties about their future prospects. While Farage described the outcome as 'astonishing' and indicative of the public mood, political figures from Labour, the Conservatives, and the Liberal Democrats have responded by debating how best to counter Reform's momentum. Reform’s focus on issues such as mass migration is credited with its growing appeal, as analysts suggest the party could pose a serious challenge in future national elections. The results have also prompted speculation about shifting political dynamics across the UK, including in Scotland.