Being a Conservative might ruin your love life—at least if you’re trying to date while queer in the UK. New research has confirmed what many LGBTQ+ singles already suspected: when it comes to swiping right, being a Tory is a total turnoff.
A study published in the Journal of Politics pulled data from over 2,000 Brits who were shown more than 20,000 mock dating profiles. Each one had randomly assigned traits—like political leanings. The results? LGBTQ+ respondents were far less likely to match with profiles aligned with the Conservative Party, showing a stark -11% drop in match likelihood compared to their cisgender, heterosexual counterparts. Labour supporters, on the other hand, saw a +12% success rate.
Even Reform UK voters—yes, the Nigel Farage fan club—were more likely to score a date, with just a -1% drop. It’s giving “red flags” a whole new meaning.
And the rejection isn’t random. Researchers say it’s deeply rooted in values. “It’s not just about politics, it’s personal,” said Dr. Alberto Lopez Ortega of Harvard. “When someone supports a party associated with anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric or policies, it’s a dealbreaker.”
For queer folks, political alignment isn’t just an opinion—it’s an extension of identity. Whether it’s voting against trans rights or ignoring conversion therapy bans, Tory policies have repeatedly clashed with LGBTQ+ values. So it’s no shock that someone flashing a blue rosette in their bio is getting left on read.
Dr. Stuart Turnbull-Dugarte, who led the research at the University of Southampton, summed it up best: “Our findings show that LGBTQ+ individuals aren’t just looking for someone attractive or interesting. They’re looking for someone who shares their fundamental vision of equality and belonging.”
This study underscores what queer daters have long known: compatibility goes beyond cute selfies and witty banter. Political and social alignment can be the difference between a spark and a swipe-left. For the LGBTQ+ community—where safety, rights, and recognition are still daily battles—dating someone who supports policies against your very existence is simply not an option.
So to any would-be Tory suitors out there hoping for a date: maybe start by reconsidering your vote.