Since November 2024, Demi Badenoch, 45, has taken the reins as leader of the Conservative Party. Notably, she is the first black person and third woman to hold the role. However, it’s never easy being the leader of the opposition. Badenoch is no exception to this rule.
Among Badenoch’s challenges as Conservative leader are recovering from a historic electoral defeat, re-defining policy stances, and fending off the threat of Farage’s Reform UK.
Brig will evaluate Badenoch’s performance through her handling of these challenges.
Policy Stances:
One of Badenoch’s boldest stances as opposition leader was questioning the Labour government’s commitment to net zero by 2050. Badenoch argues net zero by 2050 is both unrealistic and economically damaging. A Guardian article reported on the conservatives planning to abandon its legal commitment to net zero. A decision like this could create further internal divisions among conservative MPs and potentially deter environmentally conscious voters.
Regarding foreign policy, Badenoch holds a cautious stance on the Ukrainian war. In a Financial Times article, Badenoch said British troops should “ideally” not be deployed. This pragmatic approach, arguing direct conflict with Russia would be a dangerous escalation, can be met with mixed feelings. One could argue it is a stance founded on sensible realism. Others could say it weakens Britain’s international standing.
Leadership style:
A direct and uncompromising leadership style has been adopted by Badenoch. With tough local elections on the horizon, Badenoch has told Conservative Party staff to “step up their game”.
One can view this as an example of a much-needed tough leadership style after years of internal divisions. For the Conservatives to rebuild after the 2024 general election, loyalty and discipline among members is paramount.
Facing up to Reform UK:
Perhaps the highest priority for Badenoch is countering the rise of Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage. The far-right populist party has been eating into the conservative voting base, as can be seen in the 2024 general election. Furthermore, polls suggest Reform UK is a serious obstacle to the Conservative’s electoral re-emergence.
Unlike previous Conservative leaders, Badenoch refuses to pander to Reform UK’s rhetoric. Claims made by Farage that the Conservatives have “betrayed Brexit” have been pushed back by Badenoch. She has also rejected suggestions of an electoral pact between Reform UK and the Conservative Party. It is clear from this that Badenoch is standing her ground as a leader of the Conservative Party, not a puppet of Reform UK.
Public Image:
Badenoch has made her media presence felt through her confrontational approach to politics. A Sky News article highlighted her long history of public disputes, from Nigel Farage to actor David Tennant.
A critical article from the New Statesman questioned Badenoch’s leadership abilities and whether they met with expectations. The article also questioned whether or not she would be the leader who pulled the Conservative Party out of electoral defeat.
Epilogue:
Overall. While it remains a matter of opinion on how well Badenoch has led the Conservatives so far, the real test will come with the upcoming local elections and the next general election.
Featured Image Credit: members.parliament.uk
I am a third-year Politics and Journalism Studies student at the University of Stirling (2022-) and a writer and sub-editor for the Brig for over a year (Nov. 2023-), focusing mainly on political topics.
