The Conservative Party conference in Birmingham buzzed with a mix of intellectual discourse and underlying tension, largely centered around the formidable presence of Kemi Badenoch. Described by observers as a "pocket neutron bomb" and a "5ft 4in raptor," Badenoch's sharp intellect and uncompromising policy positions appear to command both respect and a palpable sense of apprehension among her party colleagues.
The conference atmosphere was set by a speech from Matthew Syed, who drew parallels between Badenoch's approach to welfare and the 19th-century German philosopher Schopenhauer's theories on compassion. Syed argued that Badenoch's "tough love" on welfare recipients, coupled with her critique of the over-use of terms like "emergency," "depression," and "trauma" in modern society, aligns with a fiscally prudent outlook that voters might embrace. He suggested her view that excessive bailouts and welfare payments could lead to bankruptcy resonated with a pragmatic electorate.
Badenoch herself took the stage, her entrance heralded by a low, Jaws-style chord that caused the assembled activists to jump. She was met with an ovation for her brief speech, delivered in a striking powdery blue trousersuit. Earlier, in an interview on the BBC's Kuenssberg program, Badenoch appeared in a Scotland rugby jersey. Penny Mordaunt, also present, spoke positively about Badenoch, fueling speculation that Mordaunt, who has been admitted to the parliamentary candidates' list, was aligning herself strategically.
Central to the discussions was Badenoch's recently published 95-page pamphlet, "The Right Way." Alex Burghart, described as the de facto deputy leader of the Tories, urged attendees to read it, adding a menacing note that Badenoch would be quizzing them on its contents. This underscores the perception of Badenoch as an "intellectual ankle biter" whose detailed knowledge and sharp questioning leave few unprepared.
Despite the underlying intensity, efforts were made to inject a sense of geniality. The stage featured a drum kit, and the exhibition hall included a mock-up of the Bayeux Tapestry depicting a version of the country's political landscape. However, not all attempts at informal interaction were seamless, as evidenced by an awkward exchange regarding a politician's marital history.
An observation was made that Badenoch might benefit from showing more generosity toward rivals, suggesting a missed opportunity to offer a warm statement about Nigel Farage's experiences with threats. The conference, while lacking the overt displays of enthusiasm seen at other political gatherings, carried a sense of serious duty, with an undertone that the party could perhaps use a touch more levity.