Cleverly turns the battle for London into a serious contest for the first time in two decades - and it’s also good news for Badenoch
- Posted on August 29, 2026
- By The Independent
- 1 Views
- 1 min read
In brief
Sir James Cleverly's decision to step down from the shadow cabinet and pursue the London mayoral race marks a significant turning point in the capital's political landscape, ending decades of electoral predictability. This strategic move reshapes Conservative ambitions in the capital while simultaneously strengthening Kemi Badenoch's position within party leadership. The development signals intensified competition for London's top office and has far-reaching implications for national politics heading toward the next general election.
Summary auto-generated by AI from the original publisher's content. Editorial standards.
Cleverly turns the battle for London into a serious contest for the first time in two decades - and it’s also good news for Badenoch
As Sir James Cleverly announces he is quitting the shadow cabinet to run for London mayor, political editor David Maddox considers the implications for the election in two years’ time, and why Kemi Badenoch will be happy
