by top line
Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s campaign claims he has enough support from Conservative members of parliament to stand in an upcoming prime ministerial vote, according to multiple reports, signaling what could be a less than surprising political comeback. seven weeks after he left Downing Street.
Then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson gives a thumbs-up gesture as he poses with fundraisers for the … [+]
key facts
The news surprised most observers, as only 50 MPs have publicly declared their support, according to the BBC.
Former Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak is reportedly the only other potential candidate to pass the 100-nomination threshold required to appear on the ballot; neither Johnson nor Sunak have formally announced that they will be running.
Johnson returned to London on Saturday after a two-week vacation in the Dominican Republic; it is unclear if he cut the trip short.
Johnson was sitting in economy class and was booed by some passengers on board his flight home. according to to a Sky News reporter who was on the plane.
Against
The claim that Johnson reached 100 nominations drew some skepticism, with Conservative MP Richard Holden tweeting that “they don’t exist”.
What to watch
Candidates have until 2 pm local time on Monday to reach 100 nominations. If anyone gets at least 156 nominations, a majority of Conservative MPs, they will become the new prime minister. Otherwise, the two main candidates will appear on an online ballot, with the estimated 170,000 registered members of the Conservative Party voting to choose the new prime minister. No date has been set for the elections.
key background
Johnson announced his resignation in July after serving just over two years as prime minister following the mass resignation of many of his top MPs over a series of scandals, such as the parties Johnson illegally threw during the Covid lockdowns and his alleged wrongdoing. handling allegations of sexual misconduct. a colleague. The Conservative Party selected Prime Minister Liz Truss as its new leader in an election that closed on September 2; she was then declared the winner and took office on September 6. Truss announced her resignation on Thursday after six tumultuous weeks in office marked by failed economic policies and the death of Queen Elizabeth II. Truss will become by far the shortest-serving British Prime Minister when he leaves office.
Other readings
How Failed Leaders Make Successful Comebacks: Boris Johnson and the Savior Strategy (Forbes)
UK Prime Minister Liz Truss resigns after 6 turbulent weeks in office (Forbes)
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson resigns after government exodus (Forbes)
Queen Elizabeth, the UK’s longest reigning monarch, dies at 96 (Forbes)
