Kemi Badenoch, the beleaguered leader of the Conservative Party, is witnessing a dramatic nosedive in her popularity, as highlighted by a stark new Ipsos poll. Her net approval rating has plummeted by 3.5 points since April, now languishing at an alarming -32. Shockingly, this places her behind Labour leader Keir Starmer, who has a net approval rating of -31. Only a mere 17% of respondents view Badenoch favourably, while a troubling 49% have a negative opinion. These numbers don’t just reflect personal failings; they signify a deeper crisis within the Conservative Party at a time when the nation craves genuine leadership.
The Ipsos data exposes a broader collapse in support for Conservative leaders. Badenoch's current plight mirrors a party marred by a lack of vision and purpose, especially in the shadow of the recent Labour government under Keir Starmer, which has already begun making significant decisions that might further alienate the electorate. Meanwhile, the disgraced former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, despite his removal from No. 10, manages a somewhat notable 26% approval rating, showing that even past leaderships resonate more positively in certain circles than the present Conservative establishment.
Adding to Badenoch’s woes is the rise of dynamic figures like Nigel Farage, whose political messaging has begun to resonate with disillusioned voters. His net rating stands at -19—far more favourable than Badenoch’s—suggesting a shift in public sentiment that could spell trouble for the Conservatives. Although Farage faces a notable unfavourable opinion, his increasing visibility represents a significant challenge to the established order, revealing a hunger for alternative viewpoints among right-leaning voters.
Gideon Skinner, Senior Director of UK Politics at Ipsos, acknowledges the complex terrain for political leaders. He points out that while there’s a slight uptick in favour for Labour, an overwhelming number of Britons feel the country is moving in the wrong direction. This pervasive dissatisfaction creates fertile ground for reformist ideologies that advocate for a departure from the status quo.
Public opinion regarding leadership effectiveness further complicates Badenoch’s position. Recent surveys indicate that 32% of those polled believe Starmer would serve as a more competent Prime Minister compared to Badenoch's meagre 18%. This chasm underscores her uphill struggle not only to win support but also to redefine her leadership in a way that resonates beyond party lines.
Worryingly, almost half of Conservative voters express discontent with Badenoch's leadership, raising alarm bells about party unity in a time when cohesion is vital. The very essence of the party is at stake, as it grapples with the repercussions of failing to connect with its base.
Despite these challenges, some party insiders cling to the hope that Badenoch is a forward-looking figure who could reignite grassroots support. However, a December poll suggests a troubling reality: while she may be favoured by some party loyalists for future leadership, her lack of broad public appeal is a fundamental hurdle that cannot be ignored.
As the political landscape evolves, all eyes will be on Badenoch. The ongoing polling indicates that if she is to regain traction, she must tackle both internal dissent and external perceptions head-on. The upcoming months are critical—not just for Kemi Badenoch, but for the Conservative Party as a whole, which must face an increasingly assertive opposition that is calling for urgent reform and change.
Source: Noah Wire Services