Today in Focus Why are so many Tories joining Reform?
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Jan 23, 2026 
Peter Walker, Senior political correspondent at The Guardian, dives into the recent influx of former Conservatives joining Reform UK. He discusses the party's rising popularity in polls and its strategic candidate positioning. Walker highlights high-profile defections, including Robert Jenrick's controversial shift, and speculates on potential future exits from the Tories. He evaluates the risks of Reform losing its outsider status and the implications of a possible Tory-Reform alliance, while shedding light on the evolving state of UK politics.
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Reform's Rapid Rise In Polls
- Reform UK has surged in polls and could win many seats, surprising even Nigel Farage.
- They now run councils and have seven MPs, boosting credibility beyond protest-party status.
Membership And Candidate Strength
- Reform now has about 270,000 members and no shortage of candidates.
- The party attracts many former Conservatives eager to stand in seats they previously contested.
Jenrick's Awkward Defection
- Robert Jenrick negotiated with Nigel Farage for months before his defection and was sacked after plans leaked.
- Kemi Badenoch's office confronted him and the chief whip told him he'd be sacked, prompting an abrupt departure.