Sunak reacts to UK Conservative election losses

STORY: The Tories are facing bleak results Friday, with voters punishing his party after a year of political scandals, surging inflation, and stagnant economic growth.

While governing parties often struggle at mid-term elections, the council results in England will be the largest, and possibly last, test of voter sentiment before the next general election which is expected to be held next year.

Sunak came to power in October amid a cost-of-living crisis, mounting concern about healthcare, widespread industrial action that has disrupted public services, and waning enthusiasm for Britain's decision to leave the European Union.

Labour said in a statement that based on these results it was on track to win the next general election with an eight-point lead over the Conservatives.