Prospective MPs for Watford have given their reaction to a snap General Election being called for July 4.
Rishi Sunak announced the vote this afternoon and fired the starting gun for campaigning across the country.
The Watford Observer approached the Conservative, Labour and Liberal Democrat representatives in Watford for their reaction. Here's what they had to say:
Dean Russell, Conservative
The town's current Conservative MP, Dean Russell, said: "I look forward to going to the polls on a track record of delivery for Watford including securing full funding for Watford General Hospital, securing a new police station with crime down."
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announces July 4th date for general election
He also pointed to "delivering my ambitious goal to deliver 1,000 trainees in Mental Health First Aid Awareness, securing over £5m funding to tackle rough sleeping and gaining royal assent for my Tips Bill".
"I am hopeful Watford residents will see I have worked tirelessly and they will want an MP that delivers. To ensure Watford continues to have a representative that truly cares and delivers in Westminster, vote Dean Russell on July 4th."
Matt Turmaine, Labour
Labour candidate Matt Turmaine said: "And we are off! Unelected prime minister Rishi Sunak has finally realised he cannot avoid the public any longer.
"After 14 years of failed Conservative government, judgement day has arrived.
"In this election the choice is simple: It is Sunak versus Starmer. No other result is possible."
He continued: "There is a better future ahead and we can leave the dark days behind us. They crashed the economy, they partied during Covid, and they’ve inflicted the highest tax burden for 70 years, while our public services crumble around us.
"Don’t just hope for a better future, only voting Labour will deliver it."
Ian Stotesbury, Liberal Democrat
Liberal Democrat candidate Ian Stotesbury said: "We finally, after months of speculation, have the General election the country needs.
"Watford needs a voice that will fight loudly for us, demand real help to tackle the cost of living crisis, investment in our hospital and our local NHS services and deliver the public services we deserve. We need to see our country change direction."
Mr Stotesbury added: "I got into politics because I believe our town and this country can be so much better.
"The Lib Dems won 12 of the 13 wards that make up the new constituency and are in with a real chance. I’ll be fighting for every vote and it would be a huge honour to serve this town as our next MP."
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