His party is deeply unpopular — so why did British PM Sunak just call an election?
NBCJUN 2024
Sunak and Starmer Kick Off Campaigns Ahead of July 4 Election
Image copyright: Samir Hussein/Contributor/WireImage via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
Every shred of evidence over the last few years points to a crushing defeat for Rishi Sunak and the Conservatives. Sunak’s last Hail Mary is calling for a snap election far sooner than expected, but it would take a miracle to close a 20-point polling gap that has persisted for months. The Tories have held power since 2010, and the UK has deteriorated in every way under their stewardship. July 4 will officially end 14 years of failed policy.
Right narrative
While many dominos still need to fall for a Tory upset, Rishi Sunak’s gamble seems to be paying off. By calling a quick election, Sunak has prevented Nigel Farage from standing for the Reform Party, which has significantly eaten into Conservative support. The Tories can now focus on trying to bring all conservative and moderate Brits back into their coalition and show them how recent indicators reveal that the UK is on the upswing.