The Tory leadership race: Runners, riders, quitters
Jul 29, 2024
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In this discussion, former Tory chairman Lord Chris Patten shares his deep insights into the shifting dynamics within the Conservative Party. Henry Hill from Conservative Home analyzes the contenders, revealing who might unite the party or face challenges ahead. They dive into the potential impact of Brexit on leadership candidates and the critical need to regain public trust. The duo also touches on media influences in politics and how to engage voters beyond the party's right wing. Plus, a fun nod to political films adds a lighthearted twist!
The Conservative Party leadership race features distinct factions, with candidates like Tom Tugendhat representing a moderate wing and Priti Patel embodying the right.
The new leader must navigate internal divisions to unify the party while effectively challenging Labour and addressing public concerns about governance.
Deep dives
Current Conservative Leadership Candidates
A range of candidates has emerged in the race for leadership of the Conservative Party, with six MPs declaring their interest. Key figures include James Cleverly, Mel Stride, and Tom Tugendhat, who represent varying ideological backgrounds within the party. The candidates are tasked with rebuilding the party's trust after significant electoral losses, emphasizing unity, discipline, and a plan to compete effectively against Labour. However, some candidates, like Suella Braverman, have opted out of the race, prompting questions about where their support will consolidate.
Divisions Within the Party
The leadership contenders can be divided into two broad groups: the One Nation, or more liberal candidates, and those leaning to the right. Candidates such as Tom Tugendhat are seen as representatives of the more moderate wing, while figures like Priti Patel and Robert Jenrick emerge from the right. The competition is shaping up to be a battle between these factions, further complicating decision-making within the party. This divide must be navigated carefully to ensure that any final candidates can appeal to a broader electorate.
Key Challenges Ahead
The next leader faces significant challenges given the party's recent electoral performance and its ideological divisions. The need for a leader who can effectively oppose Labour while unifying a fragmented base is critical. The historical trend suggests that the more right-wing candidate typically stands a better chance of winning the membership's vote, which may alienate moderate voters. Candidates must balance appealing to their party's base while addressing broader public concerns regarding competence and effective governance.
The Tory leadership window has just closed and six MPs have thrown their names in. On one side of the party sits Tom Tugendhat and Mel Stride. On the other, Priti Patel, Robert Jenrick and Kemi Badenoch. James Cleverly sits somewhere in the middle and Suella Braverman is now nowhere to be seen.
We talk to former Tory chairman, Lord Chris Patten, about the shape of his old party now. And ask Henry Hill - at Conservative Home - to read the tea leaves.
Later, the next in our thrilling 'US Presidential Election movies you might have missed' series. This one stars James Spader and John Cusack. Can you guess?
Editor: Tom Hughes
Producers: Natalie Indge & Zeynel Can Yuce
Digital Editor: Michaela Walters
Social Media Editor: Georgia Foxwell
Video Production: Shane Fennelly
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