The Conservatives' Desperate Gamble: A Boris Johnson Comeback

Felix Dubois

5 min read

Post on May 03, 2025

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The Appeal of a Boris Johnson Return

Why are some within the Conservative party still considering a return for their controversial former leader? The answer is multifaceted and reveals deep divisions within the party.

Nostalgia and Perceived Strength

Despite the numerous scandals that marred his premiership, a segment of the Conservative party and the electorate still views Boris Johnson as a strong leader capable of connecting with voters. This perception stems from several key moments:

• Successful Brexit campaign: Johnson's prominent role in the Leave campaign solidified his image as a decisive leader willing to deliver on a key promise.
• Initial COVID-19 vaccine rollout: The rapid and largely successful vaccine rollout early in the pandemic boosted his popularity, showcasing perceived competence in crisis management.
• Perceived Charisma: Johnson's undeniable charisma and unconventional style appealed to a significant portion of the population, even if that appeal has since diminished.

Recent public opinion polls, while not uniformly positive, reveal pockets of lingering support amongst older and working-class voters who might feel alienated by the current leadership’s perceived lack of dynamism. The current political climate, marked by economic uncertainty and a sense of national malaise, may fuel a longing for the perceived strength and decisiveness that Johnson, for better or worse, embodied.

Lack of Viable Alternatives

The current Conservative leadership faces significant challenges. Approval ratings remain stubbornly low, internal party divisions are rife, and a clear, compelling vision for the future remains elusive. Against this backdrop, even a damaged figure like Boris Johnson might appear, to some, as the lesser of several evils.

• Low approval ratings of current leaders: The current party leader's struggle to connect with the public provides fertile ground for a Johnson resurgence.
• Internal party divisions: Deep-seated factionalism weakens the party and provides an opening for a unifying (though controversial) figure.
• Lack of a clear vision: The absence of a strong, widely accepted policy platform further weakens the current leadership and enhances Johnson's perceived appeal, however flawed that perception may be.

A comparison of the current leader's approval ratings with Johnson's historical highs demonstrates the stark contrast in public perception and highlights the desperate search within the party for a winning formula. The potential for further internal power struggles, should Johnson return, adds to the volatile mix.

The Risks of a Boris Johnson Comeback

While some see a Boris Johnson return as a potential solution, the risks are substantial and could prove disastrous for the Conservative party.

Lingering Scandals and Investigations

Johnson's premiership was plagued by a series of controversies, and the consequences continue to linger:

• Partygate: The numerous gatherings held at 10 Downing Street during COVID-19 lockdowns caused significant public outrage and led to police investigations and fines.
• Cost of living crisis: The soaring inflation and cost of living crisis during his tenure damaged public trust in the government's economic competence.
• Handling of the pandemic: Criticisms regarding the government's handling of the pandemic continue to fuel opposition and distrust.

The potential for further investigations and revelations regarding these and other scandals poses a significant threat to the party's image and electoral prospects. Any fresh revelations could completely derail any potential comeback.

Electoral Damage

A Boris Johnson return could severely damage the Conservative party's electoral chances:

• Loss of support among swing voters: Many moderate voters are deeply disillusioned with Johnson's behaviour and policies. His return might push these voters towards the opposition.
• Damage to the Conservative brand: His association with scandal and division could further tarnish the party's image, making it harder to appeal to a wider electorate.

Analyzing voter demographics reveals how his policies and controversies disproportionately impacted key voting blocs. The potential for a significant shift in voting patterns, particularly amongst swing voters, poses a considerable threat to the party's future.

The Political Landscape and Potential Outcomes

A Boris Johnson return would dramatically alter the UK's political landscape, impacting both the opposition and the Conservative party's internal dynamics.

Impact on the Opposition

The Labour party would undoubtedly adjust its strategy in response to a Johnson comeback.

• Change in campaign focus: Labour could shift its focus to highlight Johnson's past failures and scandals.
• Potential opportunities or vulnerabilities: A Johnson return would undoubtedly present both opportunities and vulnerabilities for the Labour party, requiring a careful recalibration of their campaign strategy.

Labour would likely exploit Johnson’s vulnerabilities, focusing on issues like the cost of living crisis and the ethical questions surrounding his tenure. This recalibration, however, would necessitate a considered approach, avoiding potentially alienating certain segments of the electorate.

Impact on the Conservative Party's Internal Dynamics

A Johnson return would trigger a seismic shift within the Conservative party itself:

• Shifting loyalties: Existing alliances would be severely tested, leading to potential realignments and betrayals.
• Potential resignations: Many within the party are deeply opposed to Johnson's return and might choose to resign rather than work under him.
• Impact on party unity: A Johnson-led party would be extremely fractured and vulnerable to internal challenges and further splits.

The potential for significant internal party splits and the formation of new factions would severely weaken the party's ability to govern effectively. This fragility could lead to further leadership challenges, potentially destabilizing the government and further damaging the party's image.

Conclusion

The potential return of Boris Johnson as Conservative party leader is a high-stakes gamble with potentially devastating consequences. While nostalgia and a perceived lack of alternatives might fuel this possibility, the lingering scandals, potential electoral damage, and the impact on party unity present insurmountable risks. The decision to bring him back would dramatically reshape the Conservative party and profoundly affect the UK's political landscape. The Conservatives must carefully assess the profound risks associated with a Boris Johnson comeback before embarking on such a perilous path. Consider the long-term implications before supporting or opposing a Boris Johnson comeback.