How Rishi Sunak's Future May Hinge on the Fate of Two Tory Mayors in UK Local Elections.

The upcoming local elections in the UK will have significant implications for the Conservative Party and potentially for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The fate of two Tory mayors, Ben Houchen and Andy Street, will be crucial in determining the party's future. If they lose their seats, it could lead to a broader narrative about the toxicity of the Conservative brand. Sunak is facing long odds in both the local and general elections, and the Tories are predicted to lose hundreds of council seats. The personal standing of Houchen and Street, who have both been in office since 2017, is helping them stay competitive despite the party's overall decline in popularity. Houchen is seen as a symbol of the Conservative Party's promise to spread economic opportunity nationwide, while Street has emphasized his personal achievements and distanced himself from the Conservative affiliation. However, even if they win, it may not translate into overall success for the Conservative Party in a national vote. [Extracted from the article]

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