Rishi Sunak’s popularity has hit an all-time low since the Conservative Party conference, as indicated by a stark new poll. The survey from YouGov reveals that only 20% of voters currently think that Mr. Sunak is the most suitable candidate for prime minister, marking a decline from the previous figure of 25% prior to the Tory conference.
Lowest figure since Rishi Sunak became prime minister
In a setback for the Conservative Party’s electoral prospects, this marks the lowest point in this figure since Sunak assumed office at Downing Street last year.
However, Keir Starmer has also experienced a decline in popularity, with 32% of the public now favouring him as the best choice for prime minister, compared to 34% earlier this month.
The survey, commissioned by The Times, indicates a significant increase in the “not sure” voters, with 43% of the population unsure about their preference between the two party leaders.
Although Starmer’s personal support has diminished, the poll, conducted after the Labour leader’s conference speech where a protester showered him in glitter, reveals a rise in support for the party. The survey revealed that 28% of voters believed Starmer had a well-defined strategy for the nation, marking a six-point increase in just one week. While, only 19% felt that Sunak had a clear plan, which had decreased by two points within the same period.
This poll resulted in a two-point increase in Labour’s overall lead over the Conservatives. Among all voters, 47% indicated they would vote for Labour if a general election were held tomorrow, whereas 24% stated they would support the Conservative Party.
Additionally, 47% of those surveyed expressed the belief that Labour would bring about a substantial shift in government, nearly twice the number who held the same view about Sunak.
During this month’s Conservative conference in Manchester, Sunak stated, “It is time for a change – and we are it.”
Abandoning policies
Sunak has recently abandoned several of his party’s own policies, including controversially the northern segment of HS2. He argued that the decision to scrap HS2, came down to “the facts have changed,” as the project’s cost had more than doubled.
Labour’s national campaign coordinator, Pat McFadden, contended that the Conservatives have “let Britain down for too long” and “They cannot be the change from their own failures.”
YouGov’s most recent poll shows that the Conservative Party’s efforts to position itself as the party of change have not yet convinced the electorate. This comes after months of polls consistently showing the Tories’ lagging behind Labour, with the current gap standing at 17 points.
In his own significant address, Starmer directly appealed to Conservative voters to join Labour, pledging to lead a “mission government” in the national interest and put an end to the “chaos” of the Conservative era. The Labour leader vowed to revitalise a “crumbling” Britain through the creation of new towns and a fresh approach to economic growth, led by a revitalised party.
Final thought
Rishi Sunak’s dwindling popularity after the Conservative Party conference is more than just a statistical decline; it is a reflection of the shifting dynamics in British politics.
The people are yearning for leadership that goes beyond rhetoric and offers a clear, well-defined vision for the future. Sunak’s declining popularity serves as a poignant reminder that people are looking for more than just empty slogans. In an era marked by uncertainty and change, voters are seeking leaders who can provide a well-defined vision and a clear strategy for the nation. The future of British politics should be decided by those who can convincingly articulate that vision and deliver on their promises.
There’s a growing perception that Starmer has a more coherent plan for the country. His promise of a “mission government” and the revitalisation of Britain’s infrastructure resonates with a public tired of political chaos and uncertainty.