In a significant political blow to Rishi Sunak's Conservative Party, senior councillor James Buchan has dramatically defected to Reform UK, sending shockwaves through Westminster.
The North East Lincolnshire councillor announced his stunning departure from the Tories on social media platform X, declaring he could no longer support a party that had "lost its way" and abandoned core Conservative principles.
Growing Discontent Within Tory Ranks
Buchan's defection represents one of the most high-profile crossovers to Reform UK in recent months and signals growing discontent within Conservative ranks. The move comes as Prime Minister Sunak faces mounting pressure from both wings of his party ahead of crucial local elections.
In his resignation statement, Buchan didn't hold back, stating: "The Conservative Party has abandoned the core principles that made it great. I can no longer, in good conscience, represent a party that has strayed so far from its values and its voters."
Strategic Victory for Reform UK
The acquisition of Buchan marks a strategic victory for Richard Tice's Reform UK, which has been actively courting disaffected Conservative members. Political analysts suggest this defection could trigger further departures from Tory councillors unhappy with the party's direction.
Buchan brings considerable local government experience to his new political home, having served as a prominent Conservative voice in North East Lincolnshire. His move underscores the challenges facing Sunak as he attempts to unite his party while facing pressure from the right flank.
Impact on Upcoming Elections
This defection comes at a critical juncture in the political calendar, with local elections looming that will serve as a crucial test of Sunak's leadership. The loss of a sitting councillor to a rival party represents more than just symbolic damage—it demonstrates tangible erosion of Conservative support at the grassroots level.
Reform UK officials have hailed Buchan's defection as evidence of their growing momentum and appeal to traditional Conservative voters who feel let down by the current government's performance.
