Boris Johnson recently stated that Nigel Farage played a significant role in the destruction of the Tory party. He believes that Reform UK, led by Farage, was the main reason behind the Conservatives’ crushing defeat in the general election. According to Johnson, many Tory voters opted for Reform, ultimately giving Labour a majority over both rivals. This phenomenon was repeated across the political landscape, leading to the landslide victory for Labour.
The former Prime Minister highlighted the complexity of the reasons behind the Tories losing so many MPs in the election. He mentioned that one Tory MP who fully expected to win realized at the last minute that thousands of Tory voters were supporting Reform instead. This shift in support towards Reform had a significant impact on the outcome of the election, ultimately leading to the defeat of the Tories.
Boris Johnson did not hold back in his criticism of Nigel Farage, referring to him as the “cheroot-puffing Pied Piper of Clacton”. He accused Farage of playing a significant role in the destruction of the Tory government, suggesting that it was his intention all along. Johnson’s harsh words towards Farage suggest a deep-rooted animosity towards the Reform UK leader for his role in the downfall of the Tories.
In addition to blaming Farage for the Tory defeat, Johnson also offered advice to his party, alluding to his own exit from Downing Street in 2022. He emphasized the importance of not being hasty in getting rid of successful, election-winning leaders. Johnson’s resignation as Prime Minister was surrounded by controversies and scandals, including partygate and the Chris Pincher scandal, which led to a wave of resignations from the government.
The criticism of the Tory party’s performance in the general election didn’t just come from Boris Johnson. Conservative peer Lord Patten placed the blame squarely on Johnson and his successor, Liz Truss. Patten criticized the party for its awful fractures, lousy policies, and a collapse of values, stating that people like Johnson and Truss were responsible for the ruin of the oldest party in democratic history.
As the Labour Party settles into government under Sir Keir Starmer, the Tories are facing a leadership election following Rishi Sunak’s resignation. The candidates expected to run for leadership include former cabinet ministers Kemi Badenoch, Suella Braverman, and James Cleverly. The future of the Tory party remains uncertain as they navigate through the aftermath of a devastating defeat in the general election.
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