Conservative Leader Kemi Badenoch Launches Local Election Campaign with Bold Promises on Taxes, Farming, and Security
London, March 19, 2026 – Kemi Badenoch, Conservative Party Leader, officially kicked off the party’s campaign for the May 2026 local elections, delivering a fiery speech in Westminster that outlined a vision for lower taxes, support for farmers and small businesses, expanded energy production, and tougher law enforcement measures.
Speaking live from the campaign launch event, Badenoch positioned the Conservatives as the only party with a practical plan to “get Britain working again” after what she described as Labour’s economic failures.
The event, broadcast across social media and party channels, aimed to energise activists and voters ahead of polls on May 1, where control of dozens of councils is at stake.
In her address, Badenoch pledged to scrap burdensome taxes that she argued are stifling growth and hitting hardworking families and enterprises. She specifically highlighted relief for small businesses, including potential reductions in business rates and other levies, as part of a broader pro-growth agenda.
“We will back the people who take risks,” she emphasised, drawing applause from supporters.
A key focus was on Britain’s rural communities and agriculture sector. Badenoch committed to helping farmers by opposing what critics have called punitive policies on land and inheritance, while promoting domestic energy independence through increased oil and gas drilling.
“We will back the people who take risks,” — Kemi Badenoch
“Help the farmers, help small business, and get drilling for oil,” one attendee summarised on social media, reflecting the speech’s core messages.
On public safety, Badenoch announced plans to increase the use of stop-and-search powers to combat crime and restore confidence in policing.
This move comes amid ongoing debates over law and order, with the leader arguing it is essential for safer streets and stronger communities.
The speech also included sharp criticisms of rival parties. Badenoch took aim at Labour’s record on unemployment and energy costs, while dismissing alternatives from Reform UK and others as unworkable or extreme.
She stressed merit-based policies over what she called “nationalisation” or divisive approaches, declaring: “Some people want nationalisation with Nigel Farage, or bigger boobs with Zack Polanski – we want a society based on merit.”
Reactions to the launch were mixed. Supporters praised it as “excellent” and forward-looking, with calls for even tougher immigration measures to complement the platform.
Critics, however, accused the Conservatives of borrowing ideas from Reform UK, particularly on business support and policing tactics.
The local elections will test Badenoch’s leadership following the Conservatives’ recovery efforts after their previous general election defeat.
Party figures framed today’s event as a stepping stone toward national power, with promises of fiscal discipline, economic revival, and security at the forefront.
The full speech is available to watch on the Conservative Party’s live streams and social media channels. With the campaign now underway, all eyes are on whether these proposals will resonate with voters facing rising costs and local service challenges.
