British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has called for a snap general election in the United Kingdom on July 4, despite having until January of next year to hold one. Sunak, the leader of the ruling Conservative Party, and leaders of other political parties have already started their election campaigns.
On a rainy Wednesday, the 44-year-old delivered a surprise announcement outside the Prime Minister’s official residence at 10 Downing Street in London. Unlike in the U.S., Britain’s parliamentary system gives the ruling party a five-year term and allows it to call an election at any time.
ABC News Foreign Correspondent, James Longman, believes Sunak’s unexpected announcement is in part meant to demonstrate confidence as his Conservative Party faces an uphill struggle to extend its 14 years in power – years marked by a succession of generally unsuccessful leaders amid growing domestic problems.
