The upcoming election is still very close, with most polls showing a tight race. In such a closely contested battle, it is crucial to have journalists on the ground talking to the people who are being courted by Trump and Harris. Your support enables us to continue sending reporters to cover the story.
The Independent is a trusted source for 27 million Americans each month, representing a wide range of political beliefs. Unlike many other reputable news sources, we have chosen not to restrict access to our reporting and analysis with paywalls. However, quality journalism requires financial support.
Your contribution helps us bring important stories to light. Your support truly makes a difference.
A former Tory peer who previously criticized her own party for Islamophobia has surprisingly thrown her support behind Kemi Badenoch, expressing her hope that the candidate will bring a sense of rationality to the Conservative party. Sayeeda Warsi, in a statement on X (formerly Twitter), mentioned that she may have reservations about voting for Ms. Badenoch but views her as the better choice among the options available.
Baroness Warsi’s endorsement of Kemi Badenoch appears to be more of a commentary on the other finalist, Robert Jenrick, who has taken a right-wing stance on various issues. Jenrick has advocated for the UK to withdraw from the European Convention on Human Rights and has expressed strong support for Israel and condemnation of Hamas during the conflict in Gaza. Baroness Warsi has been critical of Jenrick in the past, particularly when he wore a shirt with the words “Hamas are terrorists.”
Despite previously calling out the Conservative party for Islamophobia, Baroness Warsi still retains her voting rights as an ordinary party member. Kemi Badenoch, who has been vocal in cultural debates, has also faced criticism for her stance on identity politics. However, Warsi’s endorsement of Badenoch has not been openly embraced by the candidate’s team, with a source close to Badenoch responding with a gritted teeth emoji.
The current dynamics within the Tory party are evident in the reactions to Warsi’s endorsement, with an ally of Robert Jenrick seeing it as a significant boost for his camp. This development highlights the complexities and divisions within the party as the leadership battle continues.
