Boris Johnson Comeback: Could He Save The Conservative Party?

Hugo van Dijk

5 min read

Post on May 03, 2025

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Johnson's Strengths: Why a Comeback is Considered

Despite the numerous scandals that plagued his premiership, the idea of a Boris Johnson comeback remains a potent force in British politics. Several factors contribute to this persistent possibility.

Residual Popularity and Charisma

A significant segment of the Conservative electorate still holds a degree of affection for Johnson. This residual popularity stems from several sources:

• Strong performance in previous elections: Johnson led the Conservatives to a landslide victory in the 2019 general election, a feat many within the party still view as a testament to his electoral appeal.
• "Get Brexit done" appeal: His promise to "get Brexit done" resonated with a large portion of the electorate, solidifying his image as a decisive leader, even among those who disagree with his methods.
• Ability to connect with voters on a personal level: Johnson's unconventional communication style, while often criticized, connected with a segment of the population who found him relatable and engaging.

Recent polling data, although fluctuating, indicates that a considerable portion of Conservative voters still view him favorably. His ability to connect with voters on a personal level, often bypassing traditional media channels, should not be underestimated. This direct connection allowed him to foster a sense of loyalty and support that persists even after his resignation.

Experience and Leadership

Johnson possesses extensive experience in navigating high-pressure political situations. His career, from Mayor of London to Prime Minister, provides a wealth of experience that could be relevant to the current challenges facing the Conservative Party:

• Negotiating Brexit: While the Brexit negotiations were contentious and ultimately divisive, Johnson’s role in steering the UK out of the European Union remains a significant part of his political narrative.
• Handling major international crises: His time in office saw the UK navigate several international crises, offering a case study in his crisis management skills, even if the effectiveness of these actions remains debated.
• Experience as Mayor of London: His time as Mayor provided valuable experience in managing a large and complex urban environment. This experience is relevant to the domestic policy challenges facing the country today.

Analyzing his track record reveals a mix of successes and failures, but his experience navigating complex political landscapes is undeniable. Whether this experience translates into effective leadership for the current challenges is, however, debatable.

Potential to Unite the Fractured Party

Some within the Conservative Party believe that only Johnson can bridge the deep divisions currently fracturing the party. His potential appeal lies in his ability to:

• Appeal to different wings of the party: Johnson has, in the past, successfully courted both Eurosceptics and more centrist Conservatives, creating a broad coalition.
• Offer a unifying figurehead: In the face of internal conflict and dwindling public support, Johnson may be seen as a strong figure able to restore unity and purpose.

However, this strategy is fraught with risks. Many within the party remain deeply opposed to his return, and attempting to unify such a divided group under his leadership could prove impossible.

Johnson's Weaknesses: The Obstacles to a Successful Return

Despite the arguments for a Johnson comeback, substantial obstacles stand in his way. His return is far from guaranteed and presents significant risks for the Conservative Party.

Lingering Scandals and Loss of Trust

The "Partygate" scandal, along with other controversies during his premiership, severely damaged Johnson's credibility. The consequences are far-reaching:

• Impact on public opinion: Public trust in Johnson plummeted following the revelations of numerous parties held at Downing Street during COVID-19 lockdowns.
• Damage to the Conservative party's reputation: The scandals have severely tarnished the reputation of the Conservative Party, making it harder to win back public support.

Numerous news articles and opinion pieces have detailed the scandals and their ramifications, painting a picture of a leader who disregarded rules and norms. Recovering from this damage would require a significant effort.

Lack of Support Among Key Party Figures

Many high-ranking Conservatives remain deeply opposed to Johnson's return. This lack of support could prove fatal to any leadership bid:

• Statements from prominent MPs: Several prominent MPs have publicly declared their opposition to Johnson, highlighting the deep divisions within the party.
• Potential internal resistance to a leadership bid: Even if Johnson attempted a comeback, he would face significant resistance from within the party, potentially derailing his ambitions.

The power dynamics within the Conservative Party are complex and volatile. Overcoming this opposition would be a monumental task, even for a figure as charismatic as Johnson.

Uncertain Electoral Prospects

A Johnson-led party faces significant uncertainty regarding its electoral prospects. Recent polling data suggests a bleak outlook:

• Recent polling data: Current polls consistently show the Conservatives trailing behind the Labour Party, suggesting that a Johnson-led party might not be able to win a general election.
• Potential impact on swing voters: Johnson's controversial past might alienate swing voters, making it even harder for the Conservatives to secure a majority.

Analyzing potential scenarios for a general election reveals a high likelihood of defeat for a Johnson-led party. This risk is a critical factor for party strategists considering a Johnson comeback.

Conclusion

The possibility of a Boris Johnson comeback is complex. While his charisma and experience could offer a temporary boost to the Conservative Party, the lingering scandals and lack of party unity pose significant obstacles. His return presents a high-risk, high-reward strategy with uncertain outcomes. A Johnson-led Conservative Party might offer a short-term surge in popularity, but the long-term consequences could be devastating. The potential for a successful Johnson-led political resurgence is slim, considering the deep divisions within the party and the public's lingering doubts.

What do you think? Could a Boris Johnson comeback truly save the Conservative Party? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Let's discuss the potential implications of a Boris Johnson comeback and whether his return would truly benefit the party's future.