Tory Leadership Contest: Tugendhat Crashes Out, Cleverly Emerges as Frontrunner

Tugendhat Out, Jenrick and Badenoch in Showdown

TOM Tugendhat has crashed out of the Tory leadership contest, leaving Robert Jenrick and Kemi Badenoch battling to survive. James Cleverly is now the new frontrunner with 39 votes, leapfrogging Jenrick who scored 31.

Cleverly Leads the Pack as Final Showdown Looms

James Cleverly is leading the pack with 39 votes, ahead of Robert Jenrick and Kemi Badenoch. The last two candidates will be decided in the final Tory MPs' knockout rounds tomorrow.

Momentum Shifts Ahead of Full Ballot

Ex-Security Minister Tom Tugendhat became the third candidate to be eliminated after receiving just 20 votes. The remaining three candidates are now scrambling to secure Tugendhat's MP supporters.

Cleverly Gains Ground as Support Grows

Following his strong performance, Cleverly expressed gratitude for the support and emphasized the need to keep spreading a positive Conservative message. He is likely to benefit the most from Tugendhat's exit.

Badenoch Battles Back Amid Controversy

Kemi Badenoch is hot on the heels of the frontrunners, with 30 votes going into the final rounds. Despite recent controversies, polls show she remains a favorite among rank-and-file members.

Call for Unity Around Badenoch

A spokesperson for the Kemi campaign urged the right of the Conservative Party to rally around her, highlighting her ability to unify the party, cut through in opposition, and her popularity among members.