Conservative Leader Pushes to Restore Party Credibility Amid Internal Unease
LONDON — Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch is working to rebuild the party’s reputation on the economy and restore public trust after its heavy defeat in the 2024 general election. As leader, she has openly acknowledged past Conservative mistakes — including issues around Brexit and economic planning — and positioned honesty with voters as central to her strategy. Badenoch has admitted her party “failed” on key issues like stopping illegal migration and argued that change will take time, signalling a shift toward a more disciplined economic focus. ITVX+1
At the 2025 Conservative Party Conference, Badenoch set out plans to cut government borrowing through spending reductions and halve the deficit, while also proposing to abolish stamp duty on primary residences as part of efforts to stimulate the housing market and boost economic credibility. The Guardian+1
Despite her efforts, some Conservative members and voters remain uneasy about her direction and leadership. Recent polling showed a significant portion of party members would prefer alternative leadership options and questioned her ability to lead into the next general election. However, senior Conservatives such as Robert Jenrick have publicly supported Badenoch and stressed unity within the party. Sky News
Badenoch has also tried to distance the party from both far‑right rhetoric and internal divisions, emphasising a focus on economic growth, controlled spending, and practical policy proposals over combative political posturing. Still, analysts say she faces the challenge of convincing both the public and her own MPs that the Conservatives can present a credible alternative to the current government on the economy. Sky News
As she continues to steer the party through this rebuilding phase, Badenoch’s leadership will likely remain under scrutiny — both from within her party and across the wider political landscape.