Full Breakdown
Michael Gove Reflects on Regret Over Boris Johnson's Leadership Bid
1/1/2026, 11:10:14 PM
Gove's Regret and the Leadership Contest
Michael Gove, now a peer in the House of Lords, has publicly expressed regret over his decision to undermine Boris Johnson's leadership bid following the Brexit referendum in 2016. In an interview with Sky News political editor Beth Rigby, Gove acknowledged that his intervention, which he described as a "spectacular political assassination," may not have been the right course of action. At the time, Gove was a prominent figure in the Leave campaign alongside Johnson, and his withdrawal of support came just before Johnson was set to announce his candidacy to replace David Cameron as Conservative Party leader.
Gove stated, "I think on balance, it would have been better all round if I had thought, 'OK, I may have these profound worries, but it is better that I keep them to myself.'" His concerns about Johnson's leadership capabilities led him to publicly declare that Johnson could not provide the necessary leadership for the challenges ahead, ultimately causing Johnson to withdraw from the race.
Context of the Leadership Bid
The leadership contest was triggered by David Cameron's resignation after losing the referendum, which saw the UK vote to leave the European Union. Gove's unexpected turn against Johnson, who was the frontrunner, shifted the dynamics of the contest, paving the way for Theresa May to become the prime minister after Andrea Leadsom withdrew her candidacy.
Reflecting on his actions, Gove noted that while he has some regrets, he also believes certain decisions were justified. He remarked, "As I look back, there are some decisions where I think that was absolutely the right thing, there are decisions where that's absolutely the wrong thing, and some things where I think it is just unknowable."
Criticism of the Remain Campaign
In the same interview, Gove criticized the Remain campaign, describing it as "lamentable." Nick Clegg, former Liberal Democrat leader and deputy prime minister under Cameron, echoed this sentiment, stating that the Remain side failed to effectively communicate their message. Clegg suggested that had the Liberal Democrats remained in government post-2015, Brexit might not have occurred.
Broader Implications and Populism
Gove's reflections also touched on the broader political landscape, highlighting a growing dissatisfaction with mainstream parties and the rise of populism. He warned that this trend could lead to more populist movements gaining traction, as they are often more adept at promising significant change to voters. Gove specifically mentioned Nigel Farage, suggesting he could have a "very strong chance" of becoming prime minister if an election were held soon.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think on balance, it would have been better all round if I had thought, 'OK, I may have these profound worries, but it is better that I keep them to myself and that I do everything possible to make things work. '” — Michael Gove, Baron Gove
- “ Pushed by Beth Rigby whether he has further regrets from that time, he said: "As I look back, there are some decisions where I think that was absolutely the right thing, there are decisions where that's absolutely the wrong thing, and some things where I think it is just unknowable.” — Michael Gove, Baron Gove
- “lamentable campaign” — Nick Clegg, Former Deputy Prime Minister
Gove's reflections on his past decisions and the political climate underscore the complexities of leadership and the unpredictable nature of political alliances.
