Kemi Badenoch launches Tory local election campaign, expects losses

Kemi Badenoch, the leader of the Conservative Party, launched the party's local election campaign in Buckinghamshire, pledging lower taxes and better services as key campaign themes ahead of the May 1 elections. She acknowledged the likelihood of losing council seats, many of which were won during the party's peak popularity in 2021, and criticized Nigel Farage's Reform UK, stating its politicians lack governance experience. Badenoch framed the Conservatives as the only party capable of effectively representing local communities compared to Labour, the Liberal Democrats, and Reform UK. Conservative co-chairman Nigel Huddleston echoed her sentiments, warning voters against the risks of voting for other parties. Election preparations have been complicated by the postponement of elections in nine areas until 2026 due to local government reorganization. The upcoming elections represent a significant test for the Conservative Party following their losses in previous elections.