UK in Crisis: Sunak Throws Hat in the Ring to Take Down Boris
“The United Kingdom is a wonderful country, but we are in the grip of a severe economic crisis,” declared former finance minister Rishi Sunak on Sunday. That’s why he’s launched a challenge to become the Conservative Party leader and the country’s next Prime Minister.
Sunak’s Ambitious Pitch
Sunak’s message is clear and cutting. He vows to “fix our economy, unite our Party, and deliver for our country.” His move marks a head-on clash with his former boss, Boris Johnson, who has yet to officially announce whether he will run.
Boris Johnson and Penny Mordaunt Join the Fray
Reports say Boris met Sunak late Saturday, just after flying back from a Caribbean holiday. Meanwhile, Penny Mordaunt, former Defence Minister and current Commons leader, is the only other official candidate. She’s making a second stab at leadership after losing out to Liz Truss in 2008.
Numbers Game: Who’s Got the Tories’ Backing?
- Rishi Sunak leads with 140 Conservative MPs on his side
- Boris Johnson trails with 75 supporters
- Penny Mordaunt has mustered 27 backers
The cut-off for candidacy is 100 MP endorsements by Monday 1pm GMT. The race is heating up, with the Tory future hanging in the balance.
