Shock poll reveals Penny Mordaunt could lead the Tories next after Rishi Sunak
EXCLUSIVE: The former Defence Secretary attracted far more support than potential rivals
She is by far the most popular contender to take over from Rishi Sunak if the Prime Minister quits as Tory leader in the wake of a lost election.
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Ms Mordaunt is far in front of former Home Secretary Suella Braverman, who is supported by 14 per cent of those polled when “don’t knows” are excluded. Present Home Secretary James Cleverly and his predecessor in the role, Priti Patel, are both the choice of 12 per cent.
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She is considered one of the strongest public speakers in the Tory party. During the first of the seven-way television debates, the former Navy reservist strongly criticised the PM’s decision to leave the D-Day commemorations in Normandy early, saying it was “completely wrong”.
An ally praised her as a “team player”, saying: “Look at what she’s doing even now to defend the party’s record and help colleagues keep their seats. I think the ‘Penny’ is finally starting to drop for many of us – she’s the leader we need.”
A local Tory supporter said: “Her no-nonsense approach and sheer energy in the debates has gone down very well. She’s seen as someone who’s honest, approachable and in touch.”