Overview
- Andrea Jenkyns, a staunch Brexiteer and former Conservative MP, has joined Reform UK and will stand as their candidate for Mayor of Greater Lincolnshire in May 2026.
- Jenkyns cited her disillusionment with the Conservative Party, describing it as 'tired' and 'beyond salvage,' after losing her seat in the July general election.
- Reform UK leader Nigel Farage revealed that the party has approved over 1,000 candidates for upcoming local elections and now boasts more than 100,000 members.
- Jenkyns emphasized her alignment with Farage's vision, calling Reform UK the 'party of the brave' and criticizing both Conservatives and Labour on issues like immigration and sovereignty.
- Farage highlighted Reform UK's rigorous vetting process for candidates and dismissed concerns over past controversies involving party members, including a previously undisclosed assault conviction of an MP.