Conservative MP Danny Kruger has defected to Reform UK, becoming the first sitting Conservative MP to do so. Kruger, who served as a shadow minister under Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, criticized the Conservative Party as ineffective and in decline, claiming it is no longer the main opposition to the left. He stated his commitment to Reform’s mission to restore the political system. His departure follows a pattern of Conservative MPs moving to Reform, perceived as an indication of dissatisfaction within the Tory ranks. Kruger noted personal difficulty in leaving the party after two decades but pointed to a “toxic brand” and lack of bold leadership as reasons for his decision. The defection raises challenges for Badenoch, who emphasized the importance of remaining focused on Conservative values amidst these changes. Critics from Labour and the Liberal Democrats labeled the Conservative party as diminished and called Reform a mere imitation of conservatism.