At the Liberal Democrat annual conference held at the Brighton Centre, young former members of the Conservative Party are finding a renewed sense of belonging. Among them is Cody Butler, 21, who carries a ‘Liberal Britain’ tote bag with ease despite noting the experience feels ‘odd’ to him.
Butler, who resigned as chair of the One Nation Conservative Network in July, is part of a growing cohort of moderates who feel they no longer have a place in the Conservative Party under Kemi Badenoch’s leadership. He cited a hostile environment for centrists, Remainers, and those concerned about climate change and conservation as key reasons for his departure.
A week after leaving the Conservatives, Butler officially joined the Liberal Democrats, aligning himself with Ed Davey’s party. His experience reflects a broader trend of young Tory activists seeking new political homes where they feel their moderate values are respected and welcomed.
I remember when Badenoch’s rise caused internal chaos, but I did not expect such a visible exodus to the Lib Dems.
Does this signal a permanent shift, or are these just disappointed activists looking for a new playground?
It is quite telling that a 21-year-old feels the Conservative Party has no room for moderates anymore.