Is A Boris Johnson Comeback On The Cards For The Conservatives?

Laila Abdi

4 min read

Post on May 03, 2025

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Johnson's Current Standing and Public Perception

Despite the controversies that ultimately led to his downfall, Boris Johnson retains a degree of popularity within certain segments of the Conservative Party and the wider electorate. Understanding his current standing is crucial to assessing the viability of a comeback.

Positive Aspects of his Leadership

Johnson's legacy is undeniably complex. However, some voters fondly remember aspects of his leadership.

• Brexit: His role in delivering Brexit, a key promise of the 2016 referendum, still resonates with a significant portion of the population, regardless of their stance on the EU. This remains a potent argument for his supporters.
• COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout: The initial success of the UK's COVID-19 vaccine rollout is often cited as a positive achievement under his leadership, despite later criticisms of the government's handling of the pandemic.
• Strong Leadership Style: Johnson’s charismatic and often unconventional style appealed to many voters, presenting a contrast to the perceived more cautious approach of his successors. This resonates with those seeking strong leadership.

While some recent polls show a degree of residual support for Johnson, it's important to note that this support is far from universal, and its strength fluctuates depending on the political climate and the specific questions asked.

Challenges to a Johnson Comeback

A Boris Johnson comeback faces significant obstacles. The shadow of numerous scandals continues to loom large, potentially damaging his chances of regaining the trust necessary for a political resurgence.

Political Scandals and Investigations

The "Partygate" scandal, along with other controversies during his time as Prime Minister, significantly damaged his credibility and fueled calls for his resignation.

• Partygate: The revelations of parties held at Downing Street during COVID-19 lockdowns severely tarnished his image and damaged public trust in the Conservative Party. This remains a major obstacle to any future political ambitions.
• Ongoing Investigations: Any further investigations or revelations could further damage his standing and severely hamper a comeback attempt.
• Loss of Trust: Regaining the trust of the public and the Conservative Party after the various scandals will be an uphill battle for Johnson.

The Current Conservative Leadership and Internal Dynamics

Rishi Sunak's leadership and its potential vulnerability are central to the "Boris Johnson comeback" narrative. The current Prime Minister faces significant challenges, offering a potential opening for Johnson to exploit.

Rishi Sunak's Performance and Popularity

Sunak's approval ratings remain consistently low, suggesting a degree of dissatisfaction with his performance within the party and the country.

• Economic Challenges: The current economic climate and the challenges Sunak faces in navigating it create an environment where a more charismatic alternative like Johnson could be appealing to some.
• Internal Divisions: There are reports of deep divisions within the Conservative Party, with factions openly expressing their dissatisfaction with Sunak's leadership. This internal turmoil could create an opportunity for Johnson's supporters to push for his return.
• Polling Data: Negative polling data for the Conservative Party provides fertile ground for the argument that a change of leadership – a return to Johnson – could be the key to electoral success.

The Likelihood of a General Election and its Impact

The timing of a general election is a critical factor in the viability of a Boris Johnson comeback. A successful return would likely hinge on the Conservative Party's electoral prospects.

Electoral Strategy and Public Opinion

A general election could dramatically impact the chances of a Boris Johnson comeback.

• Conservative Party Prospects: If the Conservatives are facing significant electoral losses, the pressure on Sunak might increase, potentially opening the door for Johnson's supporters to push for a leadership change.
• Public Opinion: The public mood will play a significant role. If the public displays a clear desire for change, a figure like Johnson, with his history of electoral success, might be seen as a viable alternative.
• Electoral Strategy: A potential Johnson comeback would drastically alter the Conservative Party's electoral strategy, impacting messaging and the party's overall approach.

Conclusion

The possibility of a Boris Johnson comeback is complex, fraught with both potential and peril. While his enduring popularity with a section of the electorate and the current challenges faced by the Conservative Party offer an opening, significant obstacles remain, primarily centered around the lingering controversies and the need to rebuild trust. The timing of a general election and the prevailing public mood will play a critical role in determining whether this political scenario ever becomes a reality. What do you think? Will we see a Boris Johnson comeback? Share your thoughts in the comments below.