Former Conservative MP Sarah Atherton has dramatically quit the party. She consequently labeled it “impotent” in a stunning rebuke. Moreover, she immediately unveiled a plan. She intends to stand in next May’s Senedd election. This move signals a significant political shift. Atherton lost her Wrexham seat last July. She then stated the Conservatives no longer represent her values. She feels she still has a lot to give to public life.
Atherton has not yet confirmed her new political home. However, she clearly hopes to continue her career in Cardiff Bay. She will undoubtedly draw on her extensive social work experience. She believes she still has a lot to give to Welsh politics. A Conservative spokesperson declined to comment on her departure.
Previously, Atherton served as the Wrexham MP from 2019 to 2024. She made history during that time. She was the first Tory ever to represent the constituency. Additionally, she held a ministerial role briefly in 2022. She was a defence minister for people and veterans.
Her relationship with the party leadership was sometimes strained. For instance, she previously suggested the Tories embrace Nigel Farage. Those comments drew sharp criticism from Welsh Tories. The then-leader Andrew RT Davies strongly disagreed with her. He famously dismissed Farage’s influence. He called it the “empty lens of a pint glass.”
Now, Atherton has completely severed ties. She explicitly stated she has not joined Reform UK. This is notable because another former colleague recently defected to them. Instead, she cited the Tory selection process as a key reason for leaving. The process favors sitting Members of the Senedd. This would have blocked her candidacy.
The upcoming Senedd election will use a new map. There will be sixteen larger constituencies. Each will elect six members from party lists. This new system provides a potential opportunity for Atherton. She firmly believes she still has a lot to give and can win a seat. Her departure is another blow to the Welsh Conservatives. It highlights the ongoing turmoil within the party nationally.
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