Today (Thursday, May 2) Brits will take to the polls to vote in local elections in what is being dubbed a huge test for Rishi Sunak ahead of this year’s general election.
Most seats up for the vote were contested three years ago, in what was a very different political climate.
Now Labour has consistently held a 20-point lead in the polls, which has triggered concerns for the Conservatives.
Mr Sunak’s party are expected to see significant losses as they defend 985 seats on Thursday.
All eyes are on two crucial mayoral elections in the West Midlands and Tees Valley, with both held by Tory mayors currently, Andy Street and Ben Houchen respectively.
Big losses could show a lack of confidence in the Tories ahead of this year’s general election.
And Tory rebels told The Financial Times there is a plan to oust or destabilise Mr Sunak once the local election results are announced.
One rebel said: “The polls and focus groups that have gone round show that nothing Rishi does matters.
“It’s not the policy, it’s the messenger. People just don’t like the guy.”
However, Kemi Badenoch has said Mr Sunak was safe regardless of the outcome of the local elections.
She told Sky News: “I think there’s a lot of noise being made by people who want to get attention but the Prime Minister has the full backing of the Cabinet, he has my full backing.”
What do you think, should Rishi Sunak step down if Tories lose badly in local elections?
Vote in the poll below and have your say in the comments.
If you can’t see the poll, click here.
