James Cleverly Steals the Spotlight at Tory Conference Amid Leadership Shuffle

Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick might have captured the media's attention, but James Cleverly is emerging as a key figure to observe. The ex-foreign secretary has been building support through his dedication to the party, reliability, and camaraderie, particularly resonating with party members in Birmingham.

Political correspondent @BethRigby

Wednesday, October 2, 2024, 6:

During an evening gathering this week, a prominent Conservative playfully categorized the Tory leadership contenders into Hogwarts Houses, as if using a symbolic sorting hat.

A former cabinet member, intimately familiar with each individual, characterized Kemi Badenoch as a Gryffindor for her "bravery," labeled Robert Jenrick a Slytherin for his "ambition," described James Cleverly as a "faithful" Hufflepuff, and identified Tom Tugendhat as a Ravenclaw, noting he was "academically inclined."

It was somewhat amusing, yet it conveyed a deeper message.

Former moderate Mr. Jenrick, using a blend of ambition and astuteness, successfully navigated past other right-leaning party members like Suella Braverman and Priti Patel to emerge as the leading candidate in the contest.

Kemi Badenoch, known for her willingness to confront challenges, speak candid truths, and engage in cultural debates, is favored within her party for her straightforward approach. Both she and another key figure arrived at the party conference as leading contenders in the contest.

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This week, Mr. Cleverly's dedication to party loyalty, steadfastness, and camaraderie has captured attention following his engaging "fireside chat" interview with GB News's Christopher Hope, which earned him a standing ovation, and his confident appearance on the main stage during the closing segment of this political showcase.

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The ex-cabinet member arrived at the conference as an underdog alongside Tom Tugendhat, ranking behind the leading contenders. However, he departs having gained some traction, now positioned as the second choice by betting agencies to clinch the leadership title, overtaking Ms. Badenoch who now ranks third, with Mr. Jenrick still in the lead.

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The team, along with the man at the helm, are visibly satisfied with the week's outcomes. "We came here with a clear mission, and we accomplished it. Everything went according to plan."

It remains uncertain if he will be among the last two contenders; the competition is wide open, and there's a chance that Mr. Jenrick, Ms. Badenoch, or Mr. Cleverly could emerge as the leader.

Mr. Tugendhat appears more vulnerable to being eliminated by MPs in the vote scheduled for October 9, following a somewhat lackluster response from the audience – however, the race remains open for the other three candidates.

Despite the skill and bravery displayed by the leading candidates, Mr. Cleverly has enhanced his position by urging his party to return to "normalcy" and emphasizing his background.

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"Currently, it's not suitable for a trainee. My actions aren't driven by a desire to become someone; they're inspired by a desire to accomplish something." His approach was quintessentially Conservative, advocating for reduced taxes, increased defense spending, and less bureaucracy. His demeanor was approachable, hopeful, and enjoyable.

Mr. Jenrick, who has prioritized addressing migration issues and withdrawing from the ECHR, emerged as the leading candidate in the initial two rounds of voting among MPs. However, he was unable to energize the audience during his speech, which he gave without the aid of notes or a teleprompter. Despite entering the conference with a lead, he was unable to clinch the victory.

Ms. Badenoch vowed to be honest about "our party, our politics, and our future," stating her intention to go back to basics in order to break down the "Blair and Brown model of continuously expanding social, economic, and legal control."

Further reading: Badenoch makes light of comments about civil servants' 'prison' allegations; Jenrick nearly catches up to Badenoch in recent survey.

Following a turbulent week marred by contentious comments she made at the periphery of the conference – whether about maternity leave, the minimum wage, or the assertion that civil servants should be "locked up" – she will depart at least satisfied with her presentation on stage.

This week's conference didn't produce any groundbreaking developments, but Mr. Cleverly has definitely made a significant impact, positioning himself as a serious contender in the race.

The decision on whether the ex-foreign secretary will be among the last two contenders lies in the hands of the Members of Parliament, yet what has been demonstrated is that success isn't solely achieved through ambition, bravery, and shrewdness.

This week has also highlighted the enormous challenge that awaits the victor in restoring the party following its most significant electoral loss in recent times.

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