Priti Patel as Tory leader

The Conservative Party leadership race is heating up as Priti Patel and James Cleverly prepare to announce their candidacies following Rishi Sunak's resignation. Patel has garnered initial support, including a nomination from MP Sir Alec Shelbrooke, who believes she can unify the party and end internal conflicts. Nominations officially open tonight, with candidates needing support from at least 10 MPs to qualify for the ballot, which will be narrowed down to two finalists by November 2. Cleverly has emphasized the need for the party to move past infighting and regain its reputation for economic growth and public service. Meanwhile, Nigel Farage has expressed concern about Patel's potential leadership, suggesting it could lead to defections to his Reform UK party. Other potential candidates include Tom Tugendhat and Robert Jenrick, indicating a competitive field ahead.