A new opinion poll indicates that Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has become the most well-regarded political party leader among voters, benefiting from growing appreciation for her direct communication style.
According to the survey conducted by More In Common, Badenoch’s net approval rating has improved significantly in recent months, rising to minus nine. This marks a sharp turnaround from the minus 32 rating she held prior to the Conservative Party conference last October.
Her current standing places her ahead of several political figures, including Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who records a minus 16 rating, and Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey at minus 11. She is also ranked above Green Party figure Zack Polanski, who shares a minus 16 score.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer trails all the major party leaders included in the poll, with a considerably lower net approval rating of minus 42.
The improvement in Badenoch’s public perception is believed to be linked to her recent political interventions, including her criticism of the Prime Minister over issues related to Angela Rayner’s tax matters and the controversy surrounding Peter Mandelson.
Despite the boost to her personal ratings, the poll suggests that the Conservative Party has yet to experience a corresponding rise in overall support.
While Badenoch continues to lag behind Farage on attributes such as perceived strength and leadership authority, she performs better in areas like transparency and demonstrating concern for the public.
Luke Tryl, the UK director of More In Common, noted that Badenoch’s public profile has grown considerably.
He explained that whereas many voters were unfamiliar with her just months ago, she is now increasingly recognised, with even some non-Conservative voters expressing respect for her clarity and conviction.
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