The rain got heavier, and Rishi Sunak's bespoke suit became the focus of attention. I presumed that he'd just fired the starting gun on what would be one of Gravesham's most closely fought elections in recent history. According to the polls, Gravesham would have a new Member of Parliament for the first time in 14 years. The polls were correct; we have a new MP, but it wasn't the battle I expected.

The rain got heavier, and Rishi Sunak's bespoke suit became the focus of attention. I presumed that he'd just fired the starting gun on what would be one of Gravesham's most closely fought elections in recent history. According to the polls, Gravesham would have a new Member of Parliament for the first time in 14 years. The polls were correct; we have a new MP, but it wasn't the battle I expected.

In the early hours of Friday, 5th July, Lauren Sullivan was elected as the Member of Parliament for Gravesham. After what had seemed at times a non-existent campaign in Gravesham, the turnout was 59%, down 6% from 2019.

On Thursday evening, the City Praise Centre in Gravesend hosted the only hustings in Gravesham for the 2024 general election.

The candidates gave an opening statement and then had 90 seconds each to answer various questions on topics ranging from ethics in public office and transgender policy in schools to social care and the persecution of religious groups.

In the run-up to the general election, I aim to talk to each candidate.

Rebecca Drake Hopkins, a freelance science writer, is the Green Party candidate for Gravesham; she lives in Gravesend with her family.

I will be documenting the upcoming General Election in Gravesham for a future edition of The Gravesend Journal.

I intend to work with all the parties as they put their case to the people.

Please reach out with any local events and campaigning. This will be an impartial record of this important time for our community.