A Boris Johnson Comeback: Hope Or Hindrance For The Tories?

Rajiv Sharma

4 min read

Post on May 03, 2025

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The Arguments for a Johnson Comeback

The persistent calls for a Boris Johnson comeback stem from several key factors, suggesting he could still hold significant sway within the Conservative Party and amongst the electorate.

Johnson's Electoral Success

Johnson's past electoral triumphs undeniably bolster the arguments for his return. His 2019 election win delivered a landslide Conservative majority, a feat many believe only he could replicate.

• Significant voter appeal: Johnson's populist appeal resonated with a broad section of the electorate, particularly in traditionally Labour-held constituencies.
• Successful policy initiatives: Policies such as the "levelling up" agenda, focused on reducing regional inequalities, and Brexit, though controversial, proved popular among key voter demographics.
• Strong Conservative mandate: The 2019 victory gave the Conservatives a clear mandate for government, a mandate some believe only Johnson can effectively leverage once again.

Perceived Strength Against Labour

Many within the Conservative Party believe Johnson remains their strongest asset against the Labour Party. His perceived strength lies in his ability to:

• Frame the political narrative: Johnson’s communication style, while often criticized, effectively resonated with a significant part of the electorate and he often set the political agenda.
• Target Labour weaknesses: His ability to exploit perceived weaknesses in the Labour party’s messaging and leadership is undeniable, based on past performance.
• Mobilize the Conservative base: Johnson’s presence could re-energize a currently fractured Conservative base.

Filling the Leadership Void

The current Conservative Party leadership faces significant challenges, creating an opening for a Johnson return. The perceived void is characterized by:

• Lack of decisive leadership: The current leadership faces accusations of lacking a decisive and compelling vision for the party and the country.
• Internal party divisions: Significant internal dissent and infighting undermine the party’s stability and public image.
• Erosion of public trust: The recent decline in public trust in the Conservative government provides an opportunity for a charismatic leader like Johnson to try to restore confidence.

The Arguments Against a Johnson Comeback

Despite the arguments in his favor, a Boris Johnson return carries substantial risks and faces significant opposition.

The "Partygate" Scandal and its Fallout

The "Partygate" scandal, involving alleged breaches of lockdown rules at Downing Street, remains a significant hurdle.

• Damage to public trust: The scandal severely damaged public trust in Johnson and the Conservative Party.
• Ethical concerns: The numerous allegations of rule-breaking raise significant ethical questions about his suitability for high office.
• Potential legal ramifications: Although criminal charges were avoided, the lingering shadow of the scandal could continue to hinder his political prospects.

Divisive Figure and Internal Opposition

Johnson's leadership style, while effective for a period, proved highly divisive.

• Significant internal opposition: Many senior Conservatives openly oppose a Johnson comeback, fearing further division and instability.
• Risk of party fracture: A return by Johnson would almost certainly trigger further internal battles and deepen existing fault lines within the party.
• Damaged relationships: The fallout from Partygate created deep divisions that have yet to heal, making a reconciliation difficult.

The Risk of Electoral Setback

A Johnson return could prove electorally disastrous for the Conservative Party.

• Alienating voters: Many voters remain deeply distrustful of Johnson, and his return could trigger a significant loss of support.
• Negative media coverage: Any Johnson comeback bid would receive intense media scrutiny, likely highlighting past controversies.
• Undermining election strategy: Focusing on a controversial figure like Johnson could distract from the party's broader electoral strategy.

A Boris Johnson Comeback: Weighing the Possibilities

The debate surrounding a Boris Johnson comeback is far from settled. While his past electoral success and perceived strength against Labour offer compelling arguments for his return, the lingering consequences of "Partygate," his divisive nature, and the risk of electoral setbacks present significant obstacles. The future of the Conservative Party, and indeed UK politics, hangs in the balance. The internal power struggle and the evolving public opinion will be crucial in shaping Boris Johnson's political future and the Conservative party leadership race.

What do YOU think? Is a Boris Johnson comeback hope or hindrance for the Conservatives? Share your views in the comments below!