James Cleverley’s rising momentum and Lib Dem Conference Insights

Mid-Atlantic - conversations about US, UK and world politics

In this episode of Mid Atlantic, Roifield Brown dives into the Conservative Party leadership race, breaking down the key moments from their recent conference in Birmingham. Joined by regular contributor Cory Bernard, they explore everything from James Cleverley’s rising momentum to Kemi Badenoch’s gaffes, Robert Jenrick’s Thatcher references, and the broader question of where the party goes from here.

But that’s not all—we start the show with a voice notes from Steve O’Neil, who attended the Conservative conference and Lib Dem conferences. Steve gives us his take on the optimistic yet mellow mood at the Lib Dem gathering and how they’re positioning themselves for the future.

Key Highlights:

• Lib Dem Conference Recap (Steve O’Neil):
• Optimism about the party’s rising profile, thanks to new select committee roles in Defra and Health.
• Emerging tensions around housing policy and Brexit, with some calling for a more pro-EU stance.
• The party’s identity crisis: will they align with Labour or attack them from the left?

• Conservative Leadership Race Analysis (Roifield & Cory):
• James Cleverley’s strong performance and his appeal to MPs and the public.
• Kemi Badenoch’s struggle with gaffes and reliance on culture wars rhetoric.
• Robert Jenrick’s "new Conservative" messaging, though lacking concrete substance.
• The broader question of whether the Conservatives can rebuild from their historic defeat, and the uncertain direction of their economic strategy.

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