Tories Face Double Blow in Upcoming By-Elections: Tamworth and Mid-Bedfordshire

Traditional Tory Voters May Not Turn Out

Rishi Sunak and the Conservative Party are bracing themselves for a potential double by-election defeat this Thursday in Tamworth and Mid-Bedfordshire. Despite a final weekend of campaigning, loyal supporters of the Prime Minister have admitted that both seats are proving to be tough battles. There is concern that traditional Tory voters may not turn out to vote, which could further impact the party's chances.

Post-Conference Poll Bounce Fails to Materialize

Party strategists are disappointed that the Conservative Party did not experience a post-conference poll bounce. This has added to the downbeat mood among party members. The upcoming by-elections are seen as a test for the party's popularity and ability to retain seats.

Lib Dems Targeting Tory Votes in Mid-Bedfordshire

The Liberal Democrats have shifted their focus from attacking Labour in Mid-Bedfordshire to targeting Tory votes instead. This has dashed hopes of holding on to the seat for the Conservatives. If Labour were to win, it would be the biggest ever majority overturned.

Hope for Tory NIMBYism and Green Belt Protection

Some Conservative MPs are hopeful that their party's commitment to protecting the green belt and opposition to housing developments will prevent voters from switching sides. They believe that these issues resonate with local voters in Mid-Bedfordshire and could sway their decision at the polls.

Labour Sees Progress but Faces an Uphill Battle

Labour MPs, while acknowledging the challenge, are optimistic about their chances in the by-elections. They feel that off the back of the Labour conference, there is a good feeling among supporters. However, they also recognize that overturning safe Tory seats with significant majorities will be a tall order.

"We know that winning in these places is a tough ask. They are safe Tory seats with massive majorities to overturn. But we're on the pitch, which shows how much progress we've made since 2019. Everyone is working hard to make history by winning," said a Labour source.