Robert Jenrick’s recent defection from the Conservative Party to Reform is encountering significant pushback from senior figures within his new party. The Conservative MP, who was portrayed by aides as a pivotal addition to Reform, has not received the endorsement he expected for a prominent role within the party. His ambitions to become the Shadow Chancellor have been met with skepticism, raising questions about his future in the party.
Defection Met with Cold Reception
Upon his arrival at Reform, Jenrick was described as the “new sheriff in town” in a leaked communication from his team. However, this characterization has not been embraced by existing members of the party, including Nigel Farage, the party leader. During an interview with the BBC, Richard Tice, the deputy leader of Reform, did not commit to supporting Jenrick’s aspirations, stating only that “the boss will make his decision” regarding leadership roles.
This hesitation from Tice, who has long been viewed as a strong contender for the Shadow Chancellor position, reflects a growing tension within the party. When asked about Jenrick’s proposal to reevaluate the two-child benefit cap for families, Tice emphasized the importance of focusing on policies that support working families, without directly addressing Jenrick’s comments.
Mixed Reactions from Party Members
Reform’s head of policy, Zia Yusuf, provided a somewhat supportive view of Jenrick, suggesting that his experience could benefit the party and help address the perceived failures of the Conservative government. Yusuf remarked, “This is a man who is thoughtful and wants to help repair the damage” caused by the Tories. He believes that Jenrick’s presence could enhance Reform’s chances in the upcoming general election.
Conversely, Laila Cunningham, the party’s candidate for London mayor, expressed a cautious stance regarding Jenrick’s defection. She acknowledged that while his departure from the Conservatives might signal their decline, she remains unconvinced about his fit within Reform. Cunningham’s initial skepticism highlights the divisions that may hinder Jenrick’s acceptance in his new political home.
Further complicating matters, a leaked memo from Jenrick’s team, which outlined strategies for his public appearances, has drawn criticism. The memo advised him to utilize humor and to showcase his personality during speeches, with specific instructions to avoid sounding “like an AI politician.” This guidance has led to ridicule, as observers liken his approach to a superficial attempt at charm.
As tensions rise within Reform, the party faces significant challenges in unifying its members behind Jenrick. Conservative Party chairman Kevin Hollinrake reflected on the situation, suggesting that Reform might not have enough space for all its aspiring leaders. He criticized the internal discord, stating, “Voters want a serious team with a clear plan,” contrasting the perceived chaos within Reform.
With a deadline of May 7 set by Reform for further defections from the Conservative Party, the coming weeks will be critical for Jenrick. He must navigate the complexities of internal party dynamics while attempting to solidify his position and influence within Reform.
