Ex-Minister Joins Rival: Braverman Defects to Populist Reform UK

Britain's former Home Secretary, Suella Braverman, has left the Conservative Party. She has joined the rival, right-wing Reform UK party. In a statement, Braverman said, "I feel like I've come home." The move is a major blow to the Conservatives ahead of the upcoming general election. Braverman is a controversial figure. As home secretary, she was criticized for calling large pro-Palestine demonstrations "hate marches." She is known for her strong views on immigration and law and order. Reform UK is a populist party. It focuses on issues like reducing immigration and opposing "net zero" climate policies. The party hopes to win votes from traditional Conservative supporters. Braverman's defection increases pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. It signals deeper divisions within the governing party.