Marc Rattigan, a Conservative district councillor representing Cliftonville East ward, has announced his departure from the Conservative Party to join Reform UK. The move was confirmed by Linden Kemkaran, leader of Kent County Council, who welcomed Rattigan to the party following a meeting last month.

Rattigan’s decision comes alongside KCC councillor Luke Evans, who also met with the KCC leader regarding the party switch. The Thanet district councillor becomes part of a growing Reform UK presence across Kent following the party’s significant gains in recent local elections.

Rattigan’s move reflects broader political shifts in the county. Reform UK secured a commanding victory in the May 2025 Kent County Council elections, winning all available seats across the Thanet district and securing a council-wide majority with 57 of 81 seats. The party’s expansion has continued into 2026, with several cross-floor defections from other parties strengthening its position at both county and district level.

The party has been particularly successful in Thanet, one of its strongest performing areas. This latest addition to the Reform UK ranks at Thanet District Council underscores the party’s growing influence in local politics across the region.

Political party changes at local level are not uncommon, with councillors occasionally switching allegiance between elections. Such movements typically reflect either changing political priorities or shifting dynamics within the parties themselves. Rattigan’s departure from the Conservatives represents another change in the district’s political composition, continuing a trend that has seen various parties gain ground in recent months.

The Conservative Party, which held significant control over Kent County Council from 1997 until the 2025 elections, has seen its representation substantially reduced both at county and district levels. Meanwhile, Reform UK’s expansion reflects the party’s growth as a political force within Kent over the past year.

Key Takeaways

• Marc Rattigan, a Conservative district councillor for Cliftonville East ward in Thanet, has joined Reform UK
• The decision follows a meeting with Kent County Council leader Linden Kemkaran last month
• Reform UK won all Thanet seats in the May 2025 Kent County Council elections, gaining 57 of 81 council seats
• The move continues a pattern of political realignment in Kent following Reform UK’s electoral success

What This Means for Kent Residents

Thanet residents can expect continued representation from Rattigan in his ward, though his vote and voice on district matters will now be cast as a Reform UK councillor rather than a Conservative. As political compositions shift across Kent’s councils, residents may wish to monitor how these changes influence local decision-making on issues affecting their communities, from planning to council services. Those seeking to understand their representatives’ positions on key issues should check their contact details through Thanet District Council’s official website.