Why is he running?
The former chancellor is posing for the party and its members as the serious candidate for the economy, which can steer the country through a potential recession by resisting calls for tax cuts.
Significant figures that Sunak . publicly support
Lord Lamont
The approval of Lord Lamont, Margaret Thatcher’s treasurer, was a huge blessing to Mr Sunak’s camp. As hopeful leaders vie to demonstrate their Thatcherite credentials, the intervention of the Tory grandee undoubtedly lent legitimacy to Mr Sunak’s plan to prioritize tackling inflation before cutting taxes.
Dominic Raab
The Deputy Prime Minister was quick to pledge his support for Mr Sunak and was rewarded by introducing him at the launch of his campaign. Gaining the support of the second-oldest cabinet minister gave an early boost to the campaign.
Jeremy Hunt
After the former health minister crashed early in the leadership contest, he stood behind Mr Sunak, saying he has the “highest standards of integrity” of all candidates.
Grant Shapps
Another hopeful leadership at the start of the race, the Transport Secretary lent his support to Mr Sunak, highlighting his early support for Brexit and his “seminal” pamphlet on free ports.
Rehman Chistia
After briefly fighting for the top job himself, the Gillingham and Rainham MP was quick to rally behind Mr Sunak, saying his “brilliant” experience as chancellor will be “vital” in tackling the cost of living.
Oliver Dowden
The former conservative party chairman, who resigned last month after the double defeat in the election, was quick to lend his support to Sunak.