Draft:Rejoin EU Party

The Rejoin EU Party is a political party in the United Kingdom that advocates for the U.K’s rejoining the European Union (EU). The party emerged in the aftermath of the U.K.s decision to leave the EU, a movement commonly known as Brexit. It was founded by Richard Hewison and Andy Smith, driven by a desire to address the negative impacts of Brexit and promote the benefits of EU membership.

Background
The Rejoin EU Party was established in response to the 2016 EU membership referendum, where a majority vote led to the U.K’s decision to leave the EU.

History
Founded in 2020 by Richard Hewison and Andy Smith, the party aimed to reverse the decision to leave the EU and maintain ties with the bloc. The party’s formation was a response to the U.K. Government’s approach to Brexit negotiations and the socioeconomic challenges that followed.

Ideology
The party’s central ideology is pro-European Union. It advocates for the U.K’s reintegration into the EU, including adherence to its political, economic and social policies. The Rejoin EU Party argues that EU membership is crucial for the UK’s economic growth, social welfare and global influence.

Electoral performance
The Rejoin EU Party has participated in several elections, including the London Assembly and mayoral elections in 2021. In the 2021 mayoral elections the party secured 28,021 votes. The party also achieved its first electoral success when Andy Smith was elected parish councillor in Oxfordshire.

Leadership
Initially the party was led by Richard Hewison until 2023. The current leader is former conservative MEP Brendan Donnelly.