Kemi Badenoch, elected as the leader of the Conservative Party, shares a polarizing reputation similar to her political idol, Margaret Thatcher. Her firm stance on issues, characterized by “anti-woke” sentiments and a direct approach, has garnered significant support from the Conservative right and grassroots members, leading to her selection over fellow right-wing candidate Robert Jenrick. By becoming the first black woman to lead a major political party in the UK, she has made history; however, she remains critical of identity politics and is unlikely to focus on this aspect as she tackles the challenge of revitalizing her party’s standing.

Badenoch attributes the Conservatives' electoral setbacks to their tendency to “talk right but govern left,” advocating for a shift away from Labour-like policies to reclaim power. This message is central to her leadership campaign, which aims at altering the foundational mindset of the British government.

Born in Wimbledon in 1980 to Nigerian parents, Badenoch’s upbringing spanned Lagos and the United States before she relocated back to the UK at 16 due to Nigeria’s deteriorating conditions. She balanced work at McDonald’s with her A-level studies in south London. Badenoch earned a degree in computer engineering from Sussex University and later pursued law while working in IT.

Her political awakening occurred during her university years when she became disenchanted with leftist campus culture, leading her toward conservative beliefs. Joining the Conservative Party in 2005 at 25, she faced initial setbacks in her political ambitions but secured an Assembly seat in 2015 after two Tory members were elected as MPs. Badenoch supported Brexit and won a Conservative seat in Saffron Walden in 2017.

Despite not having been part of Boris Johnson’s cabinet, she entered the race for leadership after his resignation, surprising many within her party. Her campaign gained traction with backing from influential figures like Michael Gove. Ultimately finishing fourth with significant MP support, Badenoch’s straightforward nature earned her a cabinet position as international trade secretary under both Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak.

Known for addressing controversial topics head-on, Badenoch has challenged narratives around institutional racism and expressed strong views on gender identity policies. As equalities minister, she opposed Scotland’s Gender Recognition Reform Bill and criticized NHS gender identity services for being influenced by ideology.

Throughout her leadership campaign, Badenoch has identified Conservatism as being under siege by new progressive ideologies that prioritize identity politics and state intervention over individual decision-making. Calling for a return to core values and innovative policy-making within the party, she is determined to rebuild its foundation amidst current challenges. As the new leader is set to be announced soon, Badenoch stands ready for a formidable task ahead.