The United Kingdom is gearing up for a six-week election campaign that will culminate in a decision on July 4 on whether to continue with the Conservative Party in power or switch to the opposition Labour Party after 14 years. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the leader of the Conservative Party, is facing off against Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, who is promising much-needed change after years of turmoil under the Tories. Sunak called the election earlier than expected, citing the need for stability in uncertain times, while Starmer is appealing to voters to end the chaos and rebuild Britain.
Sunak’s decision to call an early election has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising his bold action while others criticize it as risky. The election comes at a time of economic challenges, ethical scandals, and leadership changes within the Conservative Party since their last election win in December 2019. Sunak took office in 2022 following the short-lived tenure of Liz Truss, who was chosen by party members after Boris Johnson’s ouster. The election will also address issues such as the cost-of-living crisis and the handling of migrants and asylum seekers crossing the English Channel from Europe.
Opponents of Sunak have suggested that his choice of a summer election may indicate doubts about the success of his plan to deport migrants arriving in small boats to Rwanda. The early election also means that some government-backed legislation may not become law before Parliament is formally suspended ahead of the election. Both main parties, the Conservatives and Labour, are vying for a majority in Parliament, with Starmer leading Labour towards the political center ground in hopes of securing a win. Opinion polls have shown a double-digit lead for Labour in the lead-up to the election, but uncertainties remain in Scotland and among other parties like the Liberal Democrats and Reform U.K.
The Scottish National Party, which has dominated politics in Scotland for years, presents a challenge to both main parties, as does the potential threat from the Reform U.K. party in England. Former Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage, who is now associated with Reform U.K., announced that he would not run in the election but would support the party in other ways, including focusing on the upcoming U.S. election. Farage emphasized the global significance of the U.S. election and the importance of a strong America as a close ally for peace and security. The campaign leading up to the July 4 election will be crucial for all parties as they seek to win over voters and secure a majority in Parliament.
