Election expert explains why Reform UK’s support may have peaked despite local election gains
Farage hails ‘historic’ night for Reform UK in local elections
Nigel Farage has heralded “historic change in British politics” following Reform UK‘s local election results, suggesting the party is on course for a general election victory.
Reform UK has gained 645 councillors, while Labour lost 468 and the Conservatives lost 283, indicating a significant shift in local political landscapes.
The party has taken control of councils including Tameside, Hartlepool, Redditch, Tamworth, and Newcastle-under-Lyme, making gains in traditional Labour and Conservative heartlands.
Bookmakers William Hill have placed Reform UK at 10/11 odds to win the most seats in the next general election, reflecting their strong performance.
However, pollster Peter Kellner suggests Reform’s support may have peaked, noting a decrease in their proportion of seats won compared to last year, which could impact their general election performance under the first-past-the-post system.