PRESS RELEASE: Badenoch new favourite in Tory race after shock Cleverly exit

Kemi Badenoch is the new favourite to replace Rishi Sunak as the leader of the Conservative party, according to Star Sports.

Former favourite James Cleverly was surprisingly voted out of contention this afternoon, having led the way following yesterday’s poll of Tory MPs. The Shadow Home Secretary received only 37 votes, behind Kemi Badenoch (42) and Robert Jenrick (41).

Badenoch now sits ahead of Jenrick in the market at 4/9 from 5/2, with Jenrick 7/4 from 11/4. Sunak’s successor will be confirmed following next month’s ballot of the Conservative party membership.

William Kedjanyi, Political Betting Analyst at Star Sports, said: “James Cleverly looked to be comfortably heading towards November’s final vote in the Tory leadership race before today’s shock announcement.

“The Shadow Home Secretary’s exit has left the battle to replace Rishi Sunak as the Leader of the Opposition wide open, with Kemi Badenoch our favourite to edge Robert Jenrick.

“Cleverly was odds-on favourite yesterday, and his departure leaves Badenoch, who was well backed this morning as rumours swirled around Westminster, as the new favourite at 4/9 with Jenrick 7/4.”

Star Sports – Politics – UK Politics

⭐️ TORY LEADERSHIP BETTING ⭐️

Next permanent Conservative party leader after Rishi Sunak:

🔵 Kemi Badenoch: ?
🔵 Robert Jenrick: ?