Surprise Winners and Losers in the UK General Election 2024

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Surprise Winners and Losers in the UK General Election 2024

The UK general election of 2024 was full of unexpected outcomes and dramatic shifts, alongside Labour’s significant overall victory. Here’s a look at some of the most surprising winners and losers of the night.

Surprise Winners

Jeremy Corbyn, Independent Jeremy Corbyn, the former Labour leader, stood as an independent in Islington North after being barred from Labour candidacy. Despite a campaign initially seen as uncertain, Corbyn secured a convincing win with a majority exceeding 7,000 votes. His strong local support and stance on issues like opposing Israel’s actions in Gaza played key roles. The Labour candidate faced criticism locally, which likely contributed to Corbyn’s victory.

Adrian Ramsay, Green Party Co-Leader, in Waveney Adrian Ramsay’s victory in Waveney, spanning Suffolk and Norfolk, was unexpected. The area, traditionally held by Conservatives, saw Ramsay triumph after effective campaigning and a strong performance in televised debates. The Green Party had a remarkable night overall, gaining seats traditionally held by major parties. Notably, they ousted Labour’s shadow cabinet minister Thangam Debonnaire in Bristol Central and secured wins in unexpected places like North Herefordshire and Brighton Pavilion.

Richard Tice, Chair and Donor to Reform UK Richard Tice’s win in Boston and Skegness, a stronghold for Conservatives, was a surprise upset. Reform UK made notable progress, winning four seats including Great Yarmouth and retaining seats like Ashfield after defections from the Conservatives. Despite expectations set by exit polls, Tice’s victory marked significant gains for the party.

Surprise Losers

Liz Truss Former Prime Minister Liz Truss faced an unexpected loss in South West Norfolk, overturning her substantial majority. Her short tenure in No 10 and broader political shifts in East Anglia contributed to her defeat. Several other cabinet ministers also lost their seats, reflecting widespread swings against the Conservatives.

Jonathan Ashworth Labour’s election campaign coordinator, Jonathan Ashworth, suffered a shocking defeat in Leicester South to independent candidate Shockat Adam, who campaigned on pro-Gaza sentiments. This unexpected loss underscored broader political shifts and discontent within traditional Labour strongholds.

Ian Paisley Jr Ian Paisley Jr of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) lost his long-held seat in North Antrim to Jim Allister of the TUV. The DUP faced challenges following unpopular Brexit decisions and legal issues surrounding its former leader Jeffrey Donaldson. The party’s losses signal significant changes in Northern Irish politics.

Conclusion

The 2024 UK general election brought forth surprising victories and losses, reshaping political landscapes across the country. Labour’s gains were substantial, while unexpected upsets and shifts affected both major and minor parties alike. These outcomes highlight the dynamic and unpredictable nature of British politics in recent times.

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