After years of political wrestling and internal conflict, I’ve finally taken the plunge: I’ve left the Conservative Party and joined Reform.
And now, as the dust settles, how do I feel? Honestly, the answer is simple: relief.
It’s a profound relief, considering the anxiety, fear, and second-guessing that haunted me before making such a huge decision.
So far, the experience has been full of surprises—and all of them good.
Unexpected Support From All Corners
Over the weekend, I met an investment banker who told me that if I’d joined Reform six months ago, he would have thought I’d lost my mind.
Now, however, he said he would vote Reform if an election happened tomorrow.
“Were you a Conservative voter before?” I asked, although I had a good idea of his answer.
“Yes, but never again. I’m going to join Reform—it’s time for a revolution,” he said.
“When it comes to the Tories and Labour, a plague on all their houses.”
Realizing the Party Was Holding Me Back
Looking back, staying with the Conservative Party felt like being in a controlling relationship.
I kept forgiving repeated mistakes, empty promises, and a leadership that often acted destructively.
I was afraid to leave—worried about disappointing loyal supporters and colleagues who were still fighting to keep the party alive.
But when the news of my defection hit the Daily Mail website, the response was overwhelming.
I braced myself for anger or accusations of betrayal, but instead my phone exploded with messages of support—even from former Tory colleagues who seemed to understand why I’d left.
A Refreshing Conference Experience
The next surprise came at the Reform Party conference in Birmingham.
The energy, warmth, and enthusiasm reminded me of Conservative conferences from years past—before they became corporate, distant affairs under Cameron and Osborne.
Back then, conferences were full of passionate grassroots members, lively debates, and late-night camaraderie.
By contrast, the modern Tory gatherings had become hollowed-out corporate events, prioritizing lobbyists and PR firms over ordinary members.
At Birmingham, there was none of that disdain.
Nigel Farage and Richard Tice genuinely engaged with supporters, and seeing familiar faces from my old Conservative association felt less like a defection and more like a homecoming.
Voter Frustration and Political Reality
Over the weekend, it became clear that many voters feel both the Conservatives and Labour have let them down repeatedly.
The broad church of the Tory Party, with MPs scattered across the political spectrum, often makes effective governance nearly impossible.
Meanwhile, Labour’s first year in power has left many supporters disappointed, and backbench influence hampers meaningful reform.
Times have changed. Social media and 24/7 news mean ministers can no longer escape scrutiny.
Voters are better informed, more engaged, and increasingly unwilling to tolerate spin or incompetence.
Turning to Reform
It’s clear that many are now looking to Reform and Nigel Farage as a genuine alternative.
While the party’s policies are still developing, their principles are understood, and people recognize the ethos behind the movement.
Even some lifelong Conservative supporters, who aren’t ready to make the leap themselves, expressed hope.
“We don’t have to join anyway,” one told me.
“They’ve got our kids,” referring to the young members now joining Reform—an encouraging sign that the party may have a future.
The Big Surprise: A Focus on the Future
Perhaps the most heartening revelation has been the energy of young Reform supporters.
The future of politics isn’t just about the current generation—it’s about the next one too.
Seeing young people engaged, enthusiastic, and willing to challenge the status quo has been inspiring.
Leaving the Conservatives was daunting, but the support, energy, and sense of purpose I’ve found in Reform make me feel optimistic about what lies ahead.
Living in the Cotswolds and Community Spirit
On a lighter note, I’ve also been thinking about living in the Cotswolds, where stars like Beyonce and Jay-Z are reportedly moving.
Kate Moss, the Beckhams, Simon Cowell, and others already call this glorious slice of England home.
Having famous neighbours isn’t a problem, as long as they respect the community—shop locally, support farmers, and embrace the rain and mud along with the beauty of the countryside.
Being part of a community matters more than celebrity status.