Badenoch criticizes Trump's midterm record on tariffs, Iran and allies

Criticism of Trump's record and conduct

Badenoch criticized Trump’s policy record, specifically citing the Iran War, threats against Canada and Greenland, the implementation of tariffs, and conflicts with allies like the United Kingdom.

Regarding personal conduct, Badenoch pointed to his treatment of journalists, insults toward Keir Starmer, and his treatment of President Zelensky in the White House.

Badenoch noted that Trump won power with a coalition of Latino and Black voters but failed to utilize it effectively.

Badenoch's view on Trump's character and ideology

Badenoch characterized Donald Trump’s political style as "dirty". She noted that while Trump is "charming in person," he insults journalists and other individuals.

Badenoch stated that Trump has not behaved in a conservative way. She remarked that she liked Kamala Harris and Donald Trump "equally". Badenoch also stated she would have been content if Harris had won the 2024 presidential election instead of Trump.

Conservative party standing and Reform party tensions

Recent polls show the Conservative Party has narrowed the gap with the Labour Party to two points. Badenoch claimed she is currently beating Nigel Farage in political ratings as his support has declined following various scandals.

Badenoch labeled the Reform Party "bonkers" and stated she would not serve in a coalition government led by Farage. She stated a Commons inquiry must determine if a £5 million donation to Farage from a cryptocurrency billionaire was "corrupt".

Badenoch joked that she would include a thank you note to Farage in his Christmas card for removing her political problems.

Internal party management and Jenrick departure

Badenoch claimed the defection of her former leadership rival Robert Jenrick to the Reform Party was a "favour" to her.

She described the removal of Jenrick as similar to defusing an "unexploded bomb". Badenoch noted that leaks from the Shadow Cabinet ceased following his departure.

Critique of former Conservative leadership

She noted that immigration was too high during their tenures.

Badenoch also targeted the budget introduced by Truss. She specifically criticized the combination of a £150 billion energy bill bailout and £45 billion in tax cuts without corresponding spending cuts.

Badenoch's parliamentary style and approach

She described the environment as a "kill or be killed arena" where she must fight against 400 shouting Labour MPs.

She prefers to speak directly rather than using "fancy words" that the public does not understand. Badenoch described herself as a "cool customer" and a "poker player" with a "very good poker face".

She stated she remains unaffected by jibes from Labour and Reform. She believes in "continuous improvement" and feels she gets better every day.

Opposition to Labour policies

Badenoch refused to apologize for calling Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson "spiteful" regarding the closure of private schools. She stated the policy of applying VAT on school fees is "class war" and harmed many children whose schools were forced to close.

Keir Starmer is described as 'weaker-than-ever' and criticized for failing to address welfare spending.

Regarding the Iran War, Badenoch stated she supported the initial decision to prevent nuclear weapons. She questioned the lack of a plan for the conflict.