The leader of the Conservative Party, Kemi Badenoch, has emerged as the most popular political leader in the United Kingdom, according to a fresh opinion poll, in a development that signals deepening troubles for the ruling government.
The survey by More in Common showed the British-Nigerian national recording a net approval rating of minus nine, placing her significantly ahead of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who trails far behind at minus 42, according to GB News.
The poll also indicated that Starmer is losing ground to opposition figures, including Nigel Farage and Green Party co-leader Zack Polanski, both of whom posted ratings of minus 16.
Meanwhile, Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey ranked second overall with a score of minus 11, while Chancellor Rachel Reeves mirrored the Prime Minister’s poor showing with a rating of minus 41.
Political observers attribute Badenoch’s rise to her increasingly assertive outings during Prime Minister’s Questions, where she has repeatedly taken on the government over economic policy and a growing controversy linked to Peter Mandelson.
The dispute escalated after the opposition deployed a parliamentary “humble address” motion to compel the release of sensitive communications tied to Mandelson, exposing the government to sustained political pressure.
Further revelations are reportedly expected, raising fears of additional fallout for Labour.
Badenoch has also strengthened her grip within her party following a high-profile appearance at the Conservative Party’s autumn conference, where she proposed scrapping stamp duty for first-time homeowners, a move widely interpreted as a bid to consolidate authority and appeal to voters.
Her influence within Conservative ranks appears equally solid.
A separate survey conducted by ConservativeHome placed her at the top of the shadow cabinet approval ratings for the third consecutive time, with a net satisfaction score exceeding 82 points.
Other senior Conservative figures, including Shadow Justice Secretary Nick Timothy and Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride, also recorded strong internal ratings, underscoring a resurgent opposition bench.
Despite these gains, the broader political landscape remains volatile ahead of the May local elections.
Both Labour and the Conservatives are bracing for significant setbacks as smaller parties continue to capitalise on voter dissatisfaction.
Polling data from YouGov places Reform UK in the lead with 23 per cent support, while the Conservatives and the Green Party of England and Wales are tied at 19 per cent.
Labour trails at 18 per cent, followed by the Liberal Democrats at 12 per cent.
Analysts warn that the ruling party could lose around 2,000 council seats, a potential blow that may intensify scrutiny on Starmer’s leadership.
The Conservatives are also expected to suffer losses, as insurgent parties gain traction among disillusioned voters.