James Cleverly Gains Support in Tory Leadership Race

The race for the Conservative Party leadership is intensifying, as a recent Techne survey commissioned by the Cleverly team suggests a more competitive landscape than previously anticipated. This survey contrasts with findings from the Conservative Home panel, which still places Kemi Badenoch in the lead, while Priti Patel trails behind. The divergence in these polls indicates that the leadership contest may be more unpredictable, with varying candidate profiles influencing voter sentiment. The Techne survey's results may reflect the heightened visibility of James Cleverly, who, as shadow home secretary, had a more prominent role during recent riots. However, the stark differences in polling outcomes could also stem from the challenges in obtaining a representative sample of the Conservative Party's approximately 172,000 members. The Conservative Home panel tends to attract more politically engaged individuals, which may skew its results. Cleverly's supporters are optimistic, believing he would secure a decisive victory against any opponent. Despite Cleverly's rising popularity, the dynamics within the parliamentary Conservative Party remain uncertain. With only 121 members and most candidates receiving limited public backing, the majority of MPs have yet to express a clear preference. Rishi Sunak, the current leader of the opposition, is notably remaining neutral in the contest, further complicating the race. As the competition unfolds, candidates like Stride are seen as long shots, with odds of 22/1, while Nigel Farage's potential candidacy is even less likely at 50/1. The evolving landscape suggests that the final outcome remains wide open, with grassroots support playing a crucial role in determining the next leader.