Danny Kruger Defects from Conservatives to Reform UK
Danny Kruger, a prominent Conservative MP and former political secretary to Boris Johnson, has officially defected to Reform UK, declaring that the ideological shift within British politics is a necessary evolution, reports 24brussels.
At a press conference on Monday, Kruger described the transition as the flame of conservatism passing from “one torch to another,” asserting that while the new leadership differs, the core values remain intact. He emphasized that this “new torch is already alight, already brighter than the one it is replacing, held aloft in firm and confident hands.”
Kruger criticized the Conservative Party’s performance during its 14 years in government, stating, “The rule of our time in office was failure. Bigger government, social decline, low wages, high taxes and less of what ordinary people actually wanted.” His remarks reflect broader discontent within the party as it struggles to reconnect with its voter base.
As the first sitting Tory MP to switch parties since the general election in July 2024, Kruger’s departure marks a significant moment amidst a wave of former Conservative politicians joining Reform UK. He pointed out the stagnation following last year’s election, highlighting “a year of stasis and drift and the sham unity that comes from not doing anything bold or difficult or controversial.”
Kruger’s shift raises questions about the future direction of the Conservative Party, which has faced mounting pressure under the leadership of Kemi Badenoch. The party continues to perform poorly in the polls, prompting calls for a reevaluation of its strategies and policies to regain public support.
The evolving landscape of British politics now positions Reform UK as an emerging player, challenging the mainstream parties and advocating for a return to conservative principles without the baggage of recent Conservative governance. Observers will be watching closely to see how this defection impacts both parties in the lead-up to future elections.
