Kemi Badenoch Challenges Reform’s Poll Dominance in Lincolnshire

Kemi Badenoch, leader of the Conservative Party, expressed her confidence that her party will defy current polling predictions, which suggest that Reform UK may win nearly all but one seat in Lincolnshire during the upcoming General Election. Traditionally a Conservative stronghold, the county has seen a notable shift, with the party losing control of its county council to Reform earlier this year.

During a visit to Grantham on October 13, 2023, to commemorate the centenary of the late Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, Badenoch addressed the Local Democracy Reporting Service. She asserted that a victory for Reform is “absolutely not” guaranteed, emphasizing the importance of the policies introduced at the recent Conservative conference.

Badenoch stated, “We set out at our conference new policies which we’ve taken a lot of time to work out how they will be delivered.” She highlighted the need to leave the European Convention on Human Rights, describing this move as crucial for enhancing national security and border control. “We’re the only party that has both the competence and courage to deliver stronger borders and a stronger economy that the country is looking for,” she added.

Recent polling data from YouGov indicates that Reform UK could emerge as the largest party in the East Midlands at the next election, although they may fall short of an overall majority. If these projections hold true, Reform would secure every seat in Lincolnshire except for Rutland and Stamford. This data has been interpreted by Reform UK’s Lincolnshire leadership as evidence of a public desire for change, although Conservative councillors caution that there are still up to four years until the next election.

The celebration of Thatcher’s legacy, known as Thatcher Fest, commenced today in Grantham. This event pays tribute to her controversial tenure as the first female Prime Minister, during which she led the Conservative Party to victory in three consecutive General Elections. As part of the festivities, Kesteven and Grantham Girls School, where Thatcher served as Head Girl, will host a public screening of the film The Iron Lady, featuring Meryl Streep.

Overall, Badenoch’s remarks reflect a determination to rally support for the Conservative Party amid changing political landscapes in Lincolnshire and beyond.