Suella Braverman has defected to Reform UK, joining Nigel Farage on stage at a London rally focused on veterans' affairs. The former home secretary, sacked twice from the role, was introduced as a surprise guest, though her move had long been anticipated. Reform now has eight MPs, including three with cabinet-level experience: Braverman, Robert Jenrick, and Danny Kruger.
Braverman's defection is Farage's biggest political gamble, analysts say. While she was rapturously received by the party faithful, her history of controversy—including using a personal email for sensitive documents and writing an unauthorised article that exacerbated tensions over pro-Palestinian protests—raises questions about her suitability. A Reform insider had previously described her as 'not a team player' and 'too disruptive'.
Farage denied ever ruling out Braverman's membership, though he acknowledged others had done so on his behalf. The move risks alienating moderate voters, as Reform seeks to expand beyond its core 20% support. Labour has seized on the defection, arguing that a vote for Reform merely offers 'a Tory replay' led by misfits or electoral rejects.
Braverman's departure is unlikely to upset many Conservative MPs, with Kemi Badenoch having previously criticised Jenrick, another recent defector, for avoiding responsibility. For Braverman personally, the switch is a no-brainer, aligning her with a party leading in opinion polls and focused on hard-right, culture-war issues.
