As the Conservative Party gathers in Manchester for its annual conference, questions swirl: Is Kemi Badenoch presiding over the demise of the Tories, or is she igniting a bold fightback to topple Labour’s faltering government? Badenoch has come out swinging, displaying a resolve that’s been long awaited by supporters.
Political pundits have all but buried the Conservatives, with polls showing them trailing Labour, Reform UK, and even the Liberal Democrats—led by Sir Ed Davey, whose bumbling stunts have earned him the nickname “Frank Spencer of British Politics.” Yet, in a refreshing interview on the Daily Express’s new podcast, *Daily Expresso*, hosted by JJ Anisiobi, Badenoch revealed a warm, relatable side rarely seen in the House of Commons. Her sparkling personality and sharp wit silenced critics who’ve labeled her cold or aloof.
Badenoch didn’t hold back on her rivals. Responding to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s dismissive jab at Labour’s conference—where he mentioned the Tories only once, quipping, “Do you remember them?”—she positioned herself as the leader to hold Labour’s dismal economic record to account. She criticized their policies for stifling growth and hammering British businesses.
Taking aim at Reform UK, she called it a “one-man band” dependent on Nigel Farage, arguing that its collapse would be imminent without him. She challenged their costly proposals, like lifting the two-child benefit cap and renationalizing the steel industry, asserting their numbers don’t add up. Badenoch’s realism about the nation’s finances—acknowledging the dangers of overspending—sets her apart from rivals who shy away from hard truths.
On immigration, she vowed to revive the Rwanda Scheme, a deterrent to illegal Channel crossings scrapped by Labour for political reasons. With record numbers of small boats arriving daily, she argues Labour’s decision has backfired.
Previously, Badenoch’s slow start since becoming Tory leader in November 2024 drew criticism, but her Daily Expresso performance showcased a driven, capable leader. Financial backers agree, with the Conservatives raising £2.9 million in donations, outpacing Labour’s £2.6 million and Reform’s £1.35 million. The smart money still bets on the Tories.
The pressure is on Badenoch to deliver a electrifying speech in Manchester, rallying her party and presenting a clear, realistic vision for the UK’s challenges. If the vibrant, determined Kemi from the podcast takes the stage, writing off her or the Conservative Party would be a mistake. The fight is far from over.
