#political-defection

#political-defection

For Sam Smith, Thursday began as an ordinary day. The Conservative councillor was preparing for a budget scrutiny meeting at the Reform-led Nottinghamshire county council hall, where he is leader of the opposition, when he received a message from long-time friend Robert Jenrick. The MP's message to the Newark Conservative Association's group chat queried what local pubs they could visit to oppose Labour's hike on business rates.

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

I've battled with this decision for some time. But deep down, I know it's the right call. It isn't ordinary, hardworking people in Stevenage and across our country who've left Labour, Labour has left us. When policies harm the British people and weaken our democracy, I cannot in good conscience support them. As Stevenage's youngest councillor, I entered politics to serve with integrity and respect. Today, I know I join a party that will put the British people and our great nation first.