In a televised debate ahead of the July 4 U.K. election, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Labour leader Keir Starmer sparred over tax, the economy, and immigration. Sunak emphasized the Conservatives’ economic stewardship and urged voters to prioritize stability, while Starmer positioned Labour as the party of change, criticizing the Tories’ record and advocating for a new direction.
However, the debate lacked a clear winner, leaving Sunak with a morale boost despite trailing in the polls. Meanwhile, the campaign was roiled by the announcement of Nigel Farage’s entry into the race, leading the right-wing Reform U.K. party. Farage’s return, focused on Brexit and immigration, poses a challenge for Sunak’s party, potentially siphoning votes from socially conservative older voters.