What Caused the Shock Elimination of James Cleverly?
The Conservative leadership race’s dismissal of James Cleverly has rocked the party. Given that he lost ground on the ballot, his inability to compile the required votes to qualify for the final two was shocking. One political observer noted, “Not only did Cleverly not advance, but he went backward. How on earth did that come about?
- What Caused the Shock Elimination of James Cleverly?
- What Theories Abound: Cock-up or Conspiracy?
- Who are the Final Candidates: A Right-Wing Showdown Between Badenoch and Jenrick?
- How is the Race Changing Gears: What's Next for the New Electorate?
- What Issues Will Both Candidates Focus On for Party Members?
- How Will the Political Landscape Change After the Leadership Announcement?
What Theories Abound: Cock-up or Conspiracy?
Opinions about the causes of Cleverly’s death differ significantly in a secret poll. A fundamental error is more likely than a plot. Some believe Conservative MPs voted for another candidate once Cleverly seemed safe to eradicate someone they considered a more major threat. One person said: “Some MPs seemed to feel they could afford to gamble.”
Others contend that Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick’s campaigns were more successful and persuasive at a certain point. “The other two candidates mobilized support better when it truly counted,” observed a campaign consultant. But for now, who knows?
It no longer matters, one political insider said. They have decided on the last pair.
Who are the Final Candidates: A Right-Wing Showdown Between Badenoch and Jenrick?
Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick, the last contenders, both reflect the Conservative Party’s right flank, excluding individuals who identify as centrist or on the left from representation. “There’s a real disappointment among centrist members that there isn’t a broader choice reflected in the final two,” a party member said.
Since he became an MP, Jenrick has significantly turned even more to the right; his experiences in government have shaped his opinions, especially against immigration. On the other hand, Badenoch’s fans see her as a possible star: “She’s pugnacious in articulating her Conservatism and willing to say what others won’t,” one of them said. Even her fans admit she is a “work in progress,” with some vulnerability to make mistakes.
How is the Race Changing Gears: What's Next for the New Electorate?
Now entering a new phase, this leadership contest features tens of thousands of party members throughout the UK and 121 Conservative MPs. Team Jenrick presents itself as the underdog by embracing this role in its approach. They are pushing Badenoch to argue “anytime, anyplace, anywhere.” Jenrick will start this phase on Thursday with a speech at Westminster.
Team Badenoch emphasizes their strength, pointing out that they ranked highest on the MPs’ ballot and that polls show she is regularly the most favored possible leader among party members. “We know the grassroots will find resonance in our message,” one member said. She will also start this portion of her campaign alongside a Tory councilor contesting a council by-election outside of London
What Issues Will Both Candidates Focus On for Party Members?
From both candidates, we should expect a strong emphasis on issues that matter to party members and efforts to reach as many voters as feasible. Though there will undoubtedly be some recognition from the larger audience to highlight their capacity to win a general election, the party members currently owning the authority will eventually vote.
Set to be distributed in the following days, ballot papers will be delivered to party members who have just over a fortnight to vote online or on paper. On November 02, Rishi Sunak’s successor will be revealed three weeks from Saturday. This occasion will mark the end of the post-election period in British politics.
How Will the Political Landscape Change After the Leadership Announcement?
According to one political analyst, “The administration will have revealed its first Budget by then, and a new Leader of the Opposition will be in place. The political terrain of the following years will be forming.
