The ambitions of Robert Jenrick, the newly defected Conservative MP, are facing significant resistance within the Reform UK party. Senior figures in the party have declined to endorse his aspirations for a top leadership role, marking a challenging start to his new political chapter.
Jenrick’s defection from the Conservative Party, described by his aides as “the biggest defection story Reform has ever had,” received a lukewarm welcome. Those already aligned with Nigel Farage‘s party have not shown the enthusiasm anticipated by Jenrick’s team. In a leaked internal memo, Jenrick was touted as “the new sheriff in town,” a title that now appears to be more aspirational than factual.
During a media appearance, Richard Tice, the party’s deputy leader, was noncommittal about Jenrick’s potential as Reform’s Shadow Chancellor. When asked if he supported Jenrick’s candidacy for the role, Tice stated, “Look, Nigel’s the boss… We’ve got a multitude of talent across the whole range of the main offices of state.” This vague response left many observers questioning the level of support Jenrick can expect from his new colleagues.
The former Shadow Chancellor’s policy stance also came under scrutiny. Jenrick suggested that Reform should reconsider its approach to the two-child benefit cap for British families. Tice, however, emphasized that the party’s child benefit policy must focus on working families, sidestepping a direct endorsement of Jenrick’s proposals.
In another development, Zia Yusuf, Reform’s head of policy and a potential candidate for Shadow Chancellor himself, expressed an assessment of Jenrick as “thoughtful” and committed to addressing the perceived failures of the Conservative Party. Yusuf noted that Jenrick’s presence could enhance Reform’s chances in the next general election, indicating a belief in the strategic value of Jenrick’s defection.
Yet, the apprehension surrounding Jenrick’s acceptance into the party was echoed by Laila Cunningham, the Reform candidate for London mayor, who had previously referred to herself as the “new sheriff in town.” Cunningham remarked that while the significance of Jenrick’s departure from the Conservatives is clear, she remained cautious about his integration into Reform.
Jenrick’s public relations efforts have also faced criticism. Reports indicate that he was advised to adopt a more personable approach in his interactions with party supporters, with a leaked media plan suggesting he use humor and demonstrate passion without coming across as “an AI politician.” This memo even included potential answers to challenging questions about his move, such as quips about Farage’s reputation.
As tensions rise within Reform regarding leadership roles, Dame Andrea Jenkyns, the party’s Lincolnshire mayor, supported the decision to impose a deadline for further defections from the Conservatives, stating, “We don’t need their arrogance saying they are coming on board to ‘help.'” This reflects a desire among Reform’s leadership to consolidate their identity separate from the Conservative Party.
The Conservative Party has not missed the opportunity to mock Jenrick’s situation. Kevin Hollinrake, the party chairman, commented, “It seems the new sheriff isn’t welcome in Reform town,” pointing to internal conflicts as evidence of instability within Reform.
As the dynamics of political allegiance shift, the future of Robert Jenrick within Reform remains uncertain. His ambition for a leadership role may depend significantly on how effectively he can navigate the challenges posed by party rivals and the expectations of Reform’s supporters. The coming weeks will be crucial for Jenrick as he seeks to establish himself in a party that has yet to fully embrace his presence.
