Reform UK’s Big Wins Change the Game in 2025 Local Elections
The 2025 local elections in England have brought a major political shake-up. Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, made surprise gains, challenging Labour and the Conservatives in a way not seen before.
Reform UK Turns Heads With Historic Wins
In a dramatic result, Reform UK won the Runcorn and Helsby by-election by just six votes—overturning a massive Labour lead of nearly 15,000. This is one of the closest results in UK election history and shows just how much voter opinions are changing.
In another big moment, Reform UK candidate Andrea Jenkyns—once a Conservative MP—won the new Greater Lincolnshire mayoral race. She beat the Tory candidate by almost 40,000 votes. This marks the party’s first-ever regional mayor victory and proves Reform UK is more than a protest vote.
Labour and Conservatives Lose Ground
Labour did manage to keep control of mayoral positions in Doncaster, North Tyneside, and the West of England. But even in these areas, the party saw its support shrink. In Doncaster, Labour’s Ros Jones barely held onto her role, with Reform UK not far behind.
The Conservatives suffered heavier blows. Their vote share collapsed across many councils, raising alarm bells inside the party. Many Tory members are now questioning their leadership and election strategy.
A Changing Political Landscape in the UK
Reform UK’s strong showing points to a deeper shift in public mood. With policies focused on reducing immigration and cutting government waste, the party has struck a chord with voters unhappy with traditional politics.
Nigel Farage has now positioned Reform UK as the new main challenger to Labour. This could reshape British politics ahead of the next general election. Both Labour and the Conservatives may need to rethink their messages if they want to keep up.