Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Nadine Dorries Joins Reform UK Amid Conservative Decline

9/5/2025

27 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Nadine Dorries has defected to Reform UK, declaring the Conservative Party "dead" after private discussions.
Reform UK's membership has surged from 80,000 to nearly 240,000, with polling support rising from 19% to 30%.
The party has gained nearly £1 million from former Conservative donors, including a £500,000 donation from Nick Candy.
Critics, including Labour, view Dorries' exit as indicative of the Conservative Party's decline.

History

Historical Context

The rise of the UK Independence Party (UKIP) in the 2009 European elections, where it secured 16.5% of the vote, marked a significant shift in British politics, reflecting widespread discontent with traditional parties. This trend continued with Nadine Dorries' recent defection to Reform UK, indicating a fragmentation of voter loyalty away from established parties like the Conservatives, potentially reshaping the political landscape.

1 of 2

Story summary

Nadine Dorries has defected to Reform UK, declaring the Conservative Party "dead" after private discussions.
Reform UK's membership has surged from 80,000 to nearly 240,000, with polling support rising from 19% to 30%.
The party has gained nearly £1 million from former Conservative donors, including a £500,000 donation from Nick Candy.
Critics, including Labour, view Dorries' exit as indicative of the Conservative Party's decline.

1 / 2