Over 30 Conservative Councillors Defect to Reform UK Amid Leadership Disputes

Kemi Badenoch, leader of the Conservative Party in 2025, faced significant challenges at the Conservative conference due to a wave of defections to Nigel Farage's Reform UK party, with at least 17 councillors switching allegiance. Despite this, Badenoch firmly rejected any electoral alliances with Reform UK, emphasizing her commitment to Conservative core values and fiscal responsibility, and insisting the party needs members who are aligned for the right reasons. The defections, part of an initiative dubbed Operation Rolling Thunder, reflect shifting dynamics within the political right and have caused concern among party members, with polling showing a divided opinion on Badenoch's leadership. Many defectors, including four borough councillors from Gravesham, cited dissatisfaction with established parties and a desire for radical change, which they believe Reform UK can deliver. Badenoch portrayed these defections as politically motivated by Reform UK's rising poll numbers and maintained her resolve to lead the party through these difficulties. This political turbulence highlights ongoing tensions within the Conservative Party as it navigates leadership and ideological challenges in 2025.