Michelle Donelan, speaking to GB News, has thrown her support behind Kemi Badenoch in the ongoing Conservative Party leadership race.
The former culture secretary praised Badenoch’s ability to “cut through the noise” and represent change, qualities she believes are crucial for the party in opposition.
This endorsement comes as James Cleverly has surged to the front of the pack in the latest round of voting by Tory MPs, securing 39 votes.
Robert Jenrick and Kemi Badenoch followed closely with 31 and 30 votes respectively, while Tom Tugendhat was eliminated from the contest.
The race for Conservative leadership has intensified, with James Cleverly emerging as the new frontrunner.
Cleverly’s success follows his well-received speech at the party conference, where he urged Conservatives to be “more normal” and “sell Conservatism with a smile”.
Former immigration minister Robert Jenrick and ex-trade minister Kemi Badenoch are now vying for the second spot in the final two.
Kemi Badenoch, James Cleverly and Robert Jenrick are the three remaining candidates
GB NEWS
The remaining candidates will face another vote tomorrow, narrowing the field to two contenders. The ultimate decision will then be put to Tory members, with the new party leader to be announced on 2 November.
Donelan emphasised the need for party unity and a focus on core Conservative principles to regain the trust of the electorate.
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She stated, “To earn back the trust of the electorate, we’re only going to do that if we’re united, if we’re not navel gazing, if we’re focused on core conservative principles, things like freedom of the individual, the family, defending the nation.”
Michelle Donelan has backed Kemi Badenoch
GB NEWS
The former culture secretary cautioned against complacency, noting that despite recent positive polling, there is “a long way to the next general election”.
She stressed the importance of demonstrating the party’s commitment to these fundamental values to reconnect with voters.
Donelan highlighted the importance of addressing concerns raised by Reform party voters, particularly regarding illegal immigration.
The Tory leadership contest was discussed on GB News
GB NEWS
She noted, “In my seat, if Reform hadn’t stood, I would have won the seat.”
The former culture secretary emphasised the need for action over rhetoric on this issue.
Donelan also stressed the importance of rebuilding credibility with conservative voters, drawing parallels to the 2019 election when UKIP supporters backed the Conservatives.
She argued that the party must regain trust by demonstrating its commitment to delivering on key issues, stating, “We need to bring back some more credibility.”