Conservative MP Sir James Cleverly has announced his resignation from the shadow cabinet to pursue the candidacy for London mayor. He declared his intention to run for the city's top political office, stating that the capital requires more than just an administrator.

Cleverly has informed Tory leader Kemi Badenoch of his decision to step down as shadow housing secretary. He emphasized the need for freedom to discuss all aspects of London's future and to fully concentrate on winning the mayoral race. The election for a new London mayor is scheduled for May 2028, with the incumbent, Labour's Sir Sadiq Khan, yet to confirm his intention to seek a fourth term.

Sources close to Kemi Badenoch described Cleverly as a formidable politician capable of out-campaigning Khan. Cleverly, who previously served as Foreign Secretary under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, expressed a desire to restore London's reputation as a premier global city for living, working, investing, and business.

Cleverly's political career includes various ministerial roles under three prime ministers, such as Home Secretary and Education Secretary. An army reservist, he also served on the London Assembly before being elected as the MP for Braintree in 2015. His prior attempt to lead the Conservative Party in 2024 concluded with him losing to Badenoch.

A source close to Badenoch indicated that the leader was reluctant to see Cleverly leave the shadow cabinet but acknowledged his potential as a significant asset in the London mayoral campaign. Sir Sadiq Khan, the current mayor, began his tenure in 2016.

Cleverly criticized the Labour administration, suggesting that the capital has been let down. He also accused Prime Minister Andy Burnham of viewing London as a "cash cow" to be taxed, regulated, and blamed. Cleverly highlighted the need for affordable housing and reduced business regulation, stating that entrepreneurs face hurdles from excessive costs and red tape.

In the most recent mayoral election in May 2024, Sir Sadiq Khan secured victory over Conservative rival Susan Hall by over 275,000 votes. Khan won nine out of fourteen constituencies, gaining 43.8% of the vote share. Reform UK has already named Westminster City Councillor Laila Cunningham as its candidate for the 2028 election. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage commented on social media that the Conservatives are "done for" and suggested Cleverly might be the first of many Conservative MPs to abandon hopes in their current seats.

Cleverly has not yet resigned his position as a Member of Parliament. His announcement follows weeks of speculation about his potential departure from the shadow cabinet to pursue the London mayoral bid. During his time on the London Assembly, Cleverly chaired the London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority and worked for Boris Johnson when he was mayor.