Kemi Badenoch delivered her first and likely last leader's speech at the Conservative Party conference, receiving standing ovations and chants of her name from an audience that, according to reports, is deeply divided over her leadership. Half of the party membership reportedly wants her gone immediately, while the other half is willing to wait until next year. The speech was described as adequate, a relative triumph given the low expectations set by the conference's subdued atmosphere.
The event was marked by a sense of collective delusion, with attendees cheering and clapping to convince themselves the gathering was not a waste of time. Badenoch's address included jokes, some almost passable, and big-ticket announcements, but also mindless filler. Critics noted that the speech avoided apologies for the party's record on the economy and immigration, instead claiming the Tories could deliver a stronger economy and secure borders—despite the party's 14 years in government having resulted in zero growth and mass migration.
Badenoch's remarks included a reference to the Tories rescuing the country from fascism in 1940, but there was no rebuke for colleagues playing the race card. She also complained about Poland's success, ignoring its EU membership. The speech recapped policies previously announced for 2027, suggesting a lack of future planning. Observers concluded that the event was an exercise in sub-par performance politics, with the leader seemingly divorced from reality.
