Kemi Badenoch Triumphs in Tory Leadership Showdown: Broadening Appeal Beyond Immigration

Kemi Badenoch Outshines Robert Jenrick in Conservative Leadership TV Debate

In contrast to Robert Jenrick, who focused predominantly on immigration, Kemi Badenoch broadened her appeal by addressing topics such as government expenditure, social welfare policies, and healthcare during the debate.

Lead political reporter @joncraig

Friday, October 18, 2024, 12:

For Kemi Badenoch, simplicity is key.

Prior to her televised debate against opponent Robert Jenrick in the Conservative leadership race, she stated, "My focus is on a grassroots campaign, not one centered around television or media."

After all, she was considered the leading candidate, and as per usual expectations, stood to risk the most from constant media interviews—a tactic Mr. Jenrick has employed—and television debates, something Mr. Jenrick has insisted on.

In a televised leadership forum attended by 400 members of the Conservative Party and broadcast by GB News, she emerged as the clear victor, significantly boosting her chances of becoming the next leader of the Tories.

It appears that this television event might be the sole appearance of the two leadership candidates together, as a planned BBC show next week is uncertain, with the situation complicated by the Conservatives' desire to sell tickets to the audience.

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Ms. Badenoch's approach of limiting her television appearances seems to have paid off based on her showing here. Known for her often blunt demeanor, she came across as composed, affable, and even refined in this instance.

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Could it be voice coaching or media training? It seems likely. Her preparation was evident. She emerged as the definitive victor, composed, confident, and thoroughly informed.

At the conclusion of the two-hour event, the majority of the audience clearly supported Ms. Badenoch, leaving Mr. Jenrick facing an uphill battle. He must now reconsider his campaign strategy.

However, it's likely already past the point of no return. Voting materials were distributed to Conservative Party members earlier this week, and it's expected that a significant number will cast their votes soon after getting them, which means the race might essentially be decided quite rapidly.

Mr. Jenrick has faced criticism for overly focusing on immigration, earning him the label of a "one-trick immigration pony." Throughout the program, he emphasized this issue so extensively that at one point, it even elicited a groan from the interviewer, Christopher Hope. Despite this, Mr. Jenrick maintained that his stance on immigration and the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) was important enough to reiterate.

Ms. Badenoch demonstrated a more nuanced understanding of various topics, including government expenditure, social welfare programs, healthcare, and corrections. She also positioned herself as a practical thinker, rather than an ideologue, when addressing divisive subjects such as Brexit and Mr. Jenrick's fixation on exiting the ECHR.

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She stated that exiting the ECHR would not solve all problems. Additionally, she dismissed the idea of drastically eliminating EU regulations, emphasizing her commitment to maintaining product safety standards. Regarding the issue of overcrowded prisons, she adopted a practical approach, prioritizing the safety of prison staff in decisions about releasing inmates.

She was adamant about her commitment to eliminate Labour's proposal to impose VAT on private school fees, stating that it would be her initial action should she become prime minister. This stance, along with her other promises, received enthusiastic applause. However, this particular pledge seemed to garner the most approval from the audience.

In response to Sir Christopher Chope's assertions that she couldn't simultaneously be a mother and a Tory leader, her replies were elegant, highlighting that parenting duties are shared by both men and women.

She strongly emphasized the danger that Nigel Farage and Reform UK pose to the Conservative Party. She noted that Mr. Farage communicates with a clear and convincing manner, in contrast to the Tories—who are currently led by Rishi Sunak, though she did not mention him by name—who she described as sounding more like technocrats and managers.

She cautioned that if the Conservatives mishandle the leadership contest, Reform UK could surpass them. She also maintained that Mr. Farage does not belong in a "broad church" as he seeks to "destroy it." It was a clever remark.

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Mr. Jenrick, taking the lead at the hustings, seemed intent on resonating with the core conservative values of Tory members. However, he placed excessive focus on immigration and the ECHR, occasionally appearing as though he was merely responding with what the audience expected to hear.

Following the incident, the Jenrick team remained defiant. A representative for the Conservative leadership hopeful stated, "It's important for politicians to have policies; they are significant, especially regarding immigration."

"We can only rebuild public confidence by clearly outlining how we plan to change our approach."

"Following tonight’s performances, the argument for a direct debate has intensified. Party members should have the opportunity to watch the candidates tackle the major issues our country is facing."

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However, should this be the sole televised event, it might represent Mr. Jenrick's opportunity to gain ground in the leadership contest.

The competition won't officially conclude until the end of October, however, based on what this program has shown, Ms. Badenoch appears to be headed for a win.

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