The Conservative Party is reportedly polling at 19%, placing them in third position, a result described as the worst since 1830. The party leader's approval rating is a net -15, while Andy Burnham scores +7.
Psephologists suggest that the strategy of appealing to Reform voters may be alienating moderate voters in traditional 'blue wall' areas. Counties such as Wiltshire, Hampshire, Dorset, and Surrey are now reportedly mainly Liberal Democrat, with no Tory MP in Oxfordshire.
Kemi Badenoch has stated, "I march to the beat of my own drum." This approach has included removing the Lords whip from Gavin Barwell, who opposed Badenoch's policy barring candidates supporting net zero carbon emissions or remaining in the European Convention on Human Rights.
A group called Prosper UK, launched in January, is holding seven events at the current Conservative conference. Co-chaired by former West Midlands mayor Andy Street and Ruth Davidson, the group claims secret support from a third of MPs and 30,000 declared supporters.