Major New YouGov Poll Confirms Sussex Mayor Contest is a Two-Horse Race Between Lib Dem Ben Dempsey and Reform UK

A new YouGov MRP poll has confirmed that the race to be the first Mayor of Sussex is a clear contest between the Liberal Democrats' candidate, Ben Dempsey, and Reform UK.

The latest results from YouGov's MRP poll show Reform UK leading with 25% of the vote across Sussex constituencies, with the Liberal Democrats close behind on 22%. This puts both parties significantly ahead of the others, with the Conservative candidate trailing on 18%, Labour on 16%, and the Green Party on 15%. Other candidates account for 3% of the vote.

These figures reflect the wider political reality across Sussex that support for Labour and the Conservatives has collapsed.

The YouGov poll reinforces the view that the Liberal Democrats are the primary challengers to Reform UK in the Sussex Mayoral race, reflecting the party's recent momentum in the area. The Liberal Democrats have been winning in by-elections across Sussex. Lib Dems also gained 5 new MPs in the general election last year securing wins in Eastbourne, Lewes, Horsham, Chichester and Mid Sussex.

Liberal Democrat candidate for Sussex Mayor, Ben Dempsey, is campaigning for a fair deal for all residents. He will work to improve transport across the county and use his environmental expertise to focus on protecting the environment and stopping sewage dumping in the sea and rivers. He will take action on the cost of living and unlocking Sussex’s potential for an economy that works for everyone.

Ben commented on the poll: “This poll confirms that people in Sussex have a clear choice: either Reform UK or the Liberal Democrats. 

“People I speak to don’t want to see the divisive politics of Reform and Donald Trump here in Sussex. I’m standing up for unity, tolerance and a positive future.

"With my experience in nature conservation and senior roles in humanitarian organisations like Save the Children, I have the skills to deliver a new deal on housing, improve our transport, and protect our wonderful natural environment. I’m ambitious for the future of Sussex. A vote for me is a vote for hope and the positive change our area needs."

Ben Dempsey's details: Grew up in Haywards Heath, lives in Ditchling, has a PhD in nature conservation from the University of Sussex, and was previously a senior leader in humanitarian organisations, including Save the Children. Now works for a large wildlife conservation organisation.