Former Tory Minister Maria Caulfield Joins Reform UK Amid Defections

Former Conservative health minister Maria Caulfield has defected to Reform UK, a move that follows another significant party shift by sitting Tory MP Danny Kruger. Caulfield, who served as the Member of Parliament for Lewes in East Sussex, made the switch after losing her seat in the 2024 general election.

The announcement of Caulfield’s defection adds to the turmoil within the Conservative Party, which is facing scrutiny after Kruger became the first current Conservative MP to publicly announce his departure to Reform. During a press conference, Kruger expressed that the Conservative Party was “over,” a claim that has sparked debate among party officials.

News of Caulfield’s shift was first reported by GB News, where she emphasized her belief that those with conservative values should now turn to Reform for the future of their political aspirations. “If you are conservative right-minded, then the future is Reform. The country is going to change a lot,” she stated. Her comments echoed sentiments that many who underestimated the impact of Brexit are unaware of the transformative potential of Reform UK.

After her tenure in Parliament, Caulfield returned to her previous profession as a nurse. According to GB News, she switched her allegiance to Reform UK approximately one month prior to her public announcement. While her defection may not carry the same weight as Kruger’s, it reflects a growing trend of dissatisfaction among former Conservative members.

Kruger, representing East Wiltshire, criticized the leadership of Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, suggesting it is “too late” for the party to recover, even under alternative leadership. He confirmed that discussions regarding his move to Reform had been ongoing throughout the summer. His decision to inform Conservative Chief Whip Rebecca Harris on the morning of his announcement highlights the urgency of his discontent.

In response to Kruger’s remarks, Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride defended the Conservative Party, labeling Kruger’s assessment as “profoundly wrong.” During an interview on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Stride acknowledged the party’s recent electoral defeat but insisted that there was still time to rebuild trust with the electorate. He emphasized the importance of holding the government accountable as part of this rebuilding effort.

As these defections unfold, they signal a potential shift in the political landscape within the UK, raising questions about the future direction of the Conservative Party and the appeal of alternative political movements like Reform UK. The growing discontent among party members suggests that internal challenges may continue to affect the Conservatives’ standing in upcoming elections.