Kennedy to take break for baby before poll
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Charles Kennedy is preparing to take paternity leave - in the middle of the general election campaign.
The Liberal Democrat leader, whose wife, Sarah, is expecting their first child in April, has told colleagues he will be taking time off when the baby arrives - even if it is born in the middle of the election. Polling day is likely to be 5 May, but Mr Kennedy is believed to have told aides that spending time with his wife and baby is a priority.
Liberal Democrat election planners hope the baby arrives late so Mr Kennedy does not have to duck out of the campaign. But plans have been laid for senior MPs to take over Mr Kennedy's "leader's tour".
Senior party figures are predicting privately that the Liberal Democrats will win between 70 and 82 seats at the election. Their current tally is 55.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments