As the British general election campaign draws to a close, the focus has been less on policy and more on a pervasive desire for change. The Labour Party, led by Sir Keir Starmer, a human rights lawyer, has capitalized on this sentiment, emphasizing the failures of 14 years of Conservative rule. The Tories, under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, are predicted to suffer a monumental defeat, a sentiment echoed by various polls and political analysts. The election is not merely a critique of the present government but a rejection of the austerity, Brexit mishaps, and the leadership failures that have defined recent Tory governance.

The End of an Era. The Tories, long considered the “natural party of government”, are facing an existential crisis. Pollsters predict an overwhelming victory for Labour, with some forecasting that the Conservatives might secure as few as 53 seats out of 650. This potential wipeout signals a profound shift in British politics, where the once-dominant Tory ideology is now questioned, and its future hangs in the balance.

Sunak’s announcement of the election came as a surprise, deviating from expectations of a later date that might have benefited from improved economic figures. This abrupt decision seemed driven by a desire to avoid negative headlines about migrant crossings in the summer. However, it caught the Tory machinery off guard, leaving them unprepared for the rigorous demands of a general election campaign.

The campaign itself has been marred by missteps and gaffes. Sunak’s public appearances have often backfired, portraying him as out of touch and unprepared. From awkward photo-ops to insensitive comments about poverty, his efforts have only amplified his disconnect from the electorate. His appearance at the D-Day commemorations in Normandy, where he left early for a television interview, sparked outrage among older voters, further alienating a crucial demographic.

Labour’s Resurgence. Labour, under Starmer’s leadership, has positioned itself as the antithesis of the chaotic Tory rule. Emphasizing competence, humility, and a willingness to listen, Starmer has managed to win back many working-class voters who had defected to the Conservatives. His campaign has avoided contentious issues like wealth redistribution and Brexit, focusing instead on practical governance and restoring public trust.

Compounding Tory woes is the rise of Reform UK, a right-wing insurgency led by Nigel Farage. This party, born from the Brexit movement, has siphoned off a significant portion of the Tory right-wing base. Farage’s populist and anti-elite rhetoric resonates with disillusioned Conservative voters, further fragmenting the party’s support.

Liberal Democrats and Tactical Voting. The Liberal Democrats have also played a role in the Tory decline, particularly in southern England. Their leader, Ed Davey, has run a visually eccentric campaign, which, while appearing frivolous, has effectively captured media attention and highlighted the party’s policy differences. This siphoning of liberal Tory votes adds another layer of difficulty for Sunak’s Conservatives.

The internal strife within the Tory party has exacerbated its challenges. Many prominent Tories have opted not to stand for re-election, signaling a lack of confidence in the party’s future. Additionally, allegations of betting on the election date by Tory insiders have further tarnished the party’s image, suggesting a desperate and fractured organization.

Today’s upcoming election appears to be a referendum on the Conservative Party’s ability to govern. With public services in disarray, stagnant wages, and a general disillusionment with political leadership, the electorate is poised to deliver a harsh verdict on the Tories. The game is over for the Tories, not just in terms of electoral prospects but in their claim to be the natural party of government. The aftermath of this election will likely see a profound reckoning within the Conservative Party, as it grapples with its identity and seeks to rebuild in the face of an expected overwhelming Labour victory.