Badenoch and Jenrick Debate for Tory Leadership

Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick are set to participate in their first and only televised debate on GB News as they vie for leadership of the Conservative Party, following the elimination of James Cleverly. The debate, hosted by Christopher Hope, will allow each candidate a five-minute opening pitch followed by audience questions, with results of the leadership election to be announced on November 2. Badenoch has positioned herself as a champion of free-market principles and has criticized aspects of current government policy, while Jenrick focuses on issues like immigration and healthcare reform. Polling suggests Badenoch holds a narrow lead among party members, although Jenrick has made a more public-facing campaign effort. Both candidates are emphasizing grassroots engagement as they seek to capture the votes of Conservative members. The event marks a critical moment in the leadership race, which has seen heightened tensions and differing campaign strategies.