Tim Farron has resigned as Liberal Democrat leader. The Liberal Democrats did make a net gain of four seats but this was far lower than what they had been hoping for; early on in the campaign Farron talked about his desire to double the number of Lib Dem MPs. At the same time, their share of the popular vote fell half a percentage point—with them now down to a mere 7.4% share.
Given that these were uniquely promising circumstances for the party, they were the only UK-wide party opposed to Brexit, these elections results were particularly disappointing for them. Farron’s leadership style has received much of the blame for their failure to gain much ground at this election. In Lib Dem circles, there has been particular criticism of how he handled questions about his religious faith and his views on abortion and homosexuality.
Jo Swinson, the former coalition minister who regained her East Dumbartonshire seat at the election, will be the early front-runner to replace him.
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