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Focus on the big picture.
Tuesday, Aug 18, 2026

Crunch Time in Conservative Leadership Race

The Conservative Party is about to choose its new leader as the government prepares to unveil its Budget. Over the next 48 hours, leadership contenders will be narrowed from four to two finalists. Robert Jenrick, Kemi Badenoch, James Cleverly, and Tom Tugendhat are all vying for the position, with Cleverly showing momentum in the race.
The Conservative Party is on the verge of selecting its new leader following a series of speeches by leadership contenders at their party's conference.

As the government prepares to unveil its Budget, the race to replace Rishi Sunak as Leader of the Opposition intensifies.

Over the next 48 hours, contenders Robert Jenrick, Kemi Badenoch, James Cleverly, and Tom Tugendhat will face vital votes narrowing them from four to two finalists.

Tom Tugendhat, having faced criticism and praise, is expected to be eliminated due to James Cleverly's growing momentum, bolstered by endorsements like Mel Stride's.

Criticism arises over Cleverly's involvement with the Chagos Islands issue, though his team denies any wrongdoing.

Meanwhile, Team Jenrick remains confident, advocating the withdrawal from the European Convention on Human Rights.

Kemi Badenoch's team highlights endorsements from David Davis and Ron DeSantis.

The competition is fierce, and the outcome will define the political landscape and the future opposition to the government.
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