Barring an act of God, Boris Johnson is going to be the next leader of the Conservative Party. We're exploring what that means in two parts. Today, Helen and David talk about the domestic implications. Can Johnson avoid an election? Can he hold on to the seats he needs while winning others he doesn't have? Will he unite or divide his party? Will Labour be able to stop him either way? Plus we talk about what's at stake for the Tories in Johnson's relationship with Trump. Next week: Europe and Brexit.
Talking Points:
What shifted to make Boris Johnson’s victory almost inevitable?
Labour is now the more divided party. And the Conservative Party has united around a very unpopular leader.
Are there enough people in the parliamentary Conservative Party who would be willing to precipitate a general election if Johnson pursued no deal?
Could Johnson usher in a new relationship with the United States?
The most important decision next week, if Johnson becomes PM, will be who he appoints as Chancellor.
Will the opposition to a Johnson prime ministership coalesce around Labour or not?
Mentioned in this Episode:
Further Learning:
And as ever, recommended reading curated by our friends at the LRB can be found here: lrb.co.uk/talking
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