Tory centrists should back Kemi Badenoch and not boycott leadership vote, urges party grandee Damian Green, a former deputy prime minister under Theresa May, is calling on fellow moderate Tories to support Kemi Badenoch in the upcoming leadership election. The intervention from the prominent figure, who previously chaired the liberal One Nation caucus of Conservative MPs, comes as the Tory Reform Group (TRG) on the left of the party declined to endorse either of the right-wing candidates.
Members of the TRG have indicated that they will boycott the election after centrist candidate James Cleverly was eliminated, leaving only two candidates from the right of the party. Green expressed concern over reports of moderate party members abstaining from voting, emphasising the importance of selecting a candidate who can unite and rebuild the party with a positive agenda.
In an exclusive statement to The Independent, Green stressed the need for moderate Tories to participate in the election process, highlighting Kemi Badenoch as the candidate capable of leading the party in a new direction. Despite coming from different Conservative traditions, Green commended Badenoch for addressing key voter concerns and offering a vision to redefine Conservatism for the modern era.
Green underscored Badenoch’s recognition of the challenges facing the party in regaining public trust and becoming an effective governing force. He advocated for a unifying vision of Conservatism rather than catering to specific voter groups, suggesting that the party needs to rally around a positive platform. Badenoch, who secured the top spot in the final poll with MPs, has been working to broaden her appeal within the party.
Critics have pointed to Badenoch’s involvement in contentious cultural issues and clashes with public figures, while highlighting her opponent Robert Jenrick’s more right-leaning positions on policy matters. Green praised Badenoch for her practical approach in problem-solving and rebuilding, contrasting it with Jenrick’s rigid policy stances. He believes that Badenoch’s flexibility and emphasis on unity make her the best candidate to steer the party towards electoral success.
As the leadership election unfolds, Damian Green’s endorsement of Kemi Badenoch signals a pivotal moment for moderate Tories in determining the party’s future direction. With calls for unity and a positive vision for Conservatism, Green’s plea for centrists to support Badenoch underscores the need for inclusivity and strategic leadership in navigating the challenges ahead.