Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Badenoch's Brexit Claims Spark Distrust Among Voters

10/6/2025

28 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Kemi Badenoch, Conservative leader, claimed Northern Ireland voted for Brexit in the 2016 referendum; 56% voted Remain.
Pollster Sir John Curtice notes rising distrust in Badenoch and the Conservative Party, worsened by partygate and Liz Truss's mini-budget.
Critics say Badenoch's shift toward hard-right populism mirrors Nigel Farage's Reform UK, risking alienation of moderate voters and contributing to slipping support.

History

Historical Context

The Brexit referendum on June 23, 2016, revealed deep divisions in the UK, with 56% of Northern Ireland voting to remain in the EU. This vote stemmed from long-standing Euroscepticism, fueled by concerns over immigration and sovereignty. The rise of populist figures like Nigel Farage and the Conservative Party's internal conflicts have further complicated the political landscape, raising questions about the party's future.

1 of 2

Story summary

Kemi Badenoch, Conservative leader, claimed Northern Ireland voted for Brexit in the 2016 referendum; 56% voted Remain.
Pollster Sir John Curtice notes rising distrust in Badenoch and the Conservative Party, worsened by partygate and Liz Truss's mini-budget.
Critics say Badenoch's shift toward hard-right populism mirrors Nigel Farage's Reform UK, risking alienation of moderate voters and contributing to slipping support.

1 / 2