By Ehsan Ibrahim
In a decisive victory that marks a pivotal moment for the Conservative Party, one of the early favourites Kemi Badenoch has emerged as its new leader. She defeated former Cabinet Minister Robert Jenrick by a margin of 12,418. In what most of the lobby is signalling as a move to the right, Badenoch succeeds Rishi Sunak who joins the pantheon of Tory grandees, albeit at the age of forty-four and with quite a renewed sense of energy around him.
The former software engineer turned Secretary of State’s name is known in relatively few households, and even fewer associate her with positive views. YouGov have her down as the 25th most recognisable Tory politician in the country, however by the next election that is likely to change, even if Conservative members and MPs ultimately decide to choose someone else to lead them into the next campaign as some have already begun to claim.
Though a fairly civil leadership election, it wasn't without the brashness and abrasiveness that hobbyists like me have grown used to expecting from Badenoch. At one point of her campaign Badenoch criticised maternity pay as "excessive," framing it as a regulatory burden on businesses—a stance she later clarified was about reducing business constraints overall. Although aligning with her broader leadership approach that claims to prioritise economic freedoms, clearly this hiccup raises concerns about her appeal to families and working parents. It leaves most asking if Badenoch’s views on regulation resonate with voters, or will this stance alienate key demographics?
As implied, this isn’t the first time the former Business Secretary has found herself in the press in less than ideal circumstances. Only weeks after the General Election, reports emerged accusing Badenoch of creating a toxic atmosphere during her time in the Department for Business and Trade. Sources claimed that her management style was so abrasive that at least three senior officials felt compelled to leave, describing her behaviour as "bullying and traumatising." Concerns about morale were significant enough that a town hall meeting was held to address the working culture among staff. While Badenoch has denied these allegations, the controversy raises questions about her leadership style and its implications for her new role as Conservative leader. Can her abrasive approach effectively unite the party and sway the 26% of Brits who view the Conservative Party as “Weak or Nasty,” according to a YouGov poll?
As Badenoch steps into her role as Conservative leader, there is little doubt that she will challenge Labour with a determined focus. Whether her approach will ultimately resonate with the broader public, however, remains to be seen. Currently, polling reflects a cautious electorate: 20% of Brits believe Badenoch would make a better Prime Minister than Keir Starmer, while 27% lean towards Starmer over the new Tory leader. These numbers may shift as Badenoch’s leadership style and policy stances become clearer over time. In an era where Conservative setbacks have often been self-inflicted, her success will largely depend on her ability to unify her party and inspire a sceptical public. All eyes will be on Badenoch as she attempts to reshape the Conservative Party and chart its course for the future.
Image: AP Pic
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