Opinion, Watford Observer, 8th March 2026 Watford Tories chairman reflects on state of politics in UK | Watford Observer
As we approach the next local elections in Watford in May, it might be a good moment to reflect on the state of our politics.
It is hard to remember the current government was elected with big majority just 18 months ago. It all now feels so temporary as Labour lurch from one U-turn to the next and recently lost a formerly ‘safe’ seat to a so-called ‘insurgent' party, the Greens.
The temptation to vote for a ‘none of the above’ party is great.
But is this going to help?
These parties gain votes by making easy promises targeted to the voters they want, often depending on the area. So the Greens talk about trees and green spaces whilst having a political programme that would wreck our economy. Here in Watford they openly say the solution is easy: get businesses to pay more tax even though they already pay their fair share and create the jobs and wealth the country needs.
The Lib Dems to say all our problems can be solved by throwing money at them – both nationally and here in Watford – without most people having to pay any more taxes. It simply doesn’t add up as we know here in Watford: our borough council sets the highest council tax in the county.
The new kid on the block, Reform, has offered in recent elections both to increase benefits and slash taxes. But where they actually took power last year, in Kent for example, they have simply abandoned their election promises and in fact increased taxes.
The honest challenge in politics is to offer a consistent, coherent and costed programme to the electorate. My own party has had its difficulties and made mistakes in recent years but that is at least what we try to do. There’s lots to think about ahead of the local elections in May.
Stephen Woodard
Chairman, Watford Conservatives
