Tim Dower: Boris Johnson - charismatic, recognisable and a bit of a clown
Early Edition with Ryan Bridge · Newstalk ZB
July 7, 20222m 2s
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Show Notes
Boris Johnson.
Charismatic, almost a cartoon figure, bit of a clown, instantly recognisable and right out of the likeable toff mould.
But that's really about as far as comparisons between him and Conservative leaders past really goes.
They've fallen on their swords with a degree of grace, even occasionally a little humility. What's different about Boris is even at the end he's blaming everyone else.
So it's the herd's fault, if only they'd stuck with me it would all have worked out.
The hallmark of the Boris Johnson brand has been that boyish cheekiness, even when you knew he was lying through his teeth there was something, well, just likeable about him.
So he remains at number 10 for now, and for quite a while, at least a couple of months longer as Prime Minister.
Is this even remotely feasible?
Boris in office, on his best behaviour, but with one hand tied behind his back at a time his country, like ours, is facing massive challenges not least the war in Ukraine.
A crippled leader, more liability than asset probably, a toxic brand destined for the TV chat show circuit or maybe a diplomatic role somewhere?
Is there a lesson for us in all this?
Maybe, maybe it's a warning about getting sucked in by the cult of personality.
Maybe a reminder about the difference between substance and showmanship.
Not thinking of anyone in particular.
Charismatic, almost a cartoon figure, bit of a clown, instantly recognisable and right out of the likeable toff mould.
But that's really about as far as comparisons between him and Conservative leaders past really goes.
They've fallen on their swords with a degree of grace, even occasionally a little humility. What's different about Boris is even at the end he's blaming everyone else.
So it's the herd's fault, if only they'd stuck with me it would all have worked out.
The hallmark of the Boris Johnson brand has been that boyish cheekiness, even when you knew he was lying through his teeth there was something, well, just likeable about him.
So he remains at number 10 for now, and for quite a while, at least a couple of months longer as Prime Minister.
Is this even remotely feasible?
Boris in office, on his best behaviour, but with one hand tied behind his back at a time his country, like ours, is facing massive challenges not least the war in Ukraine.
A crippled leader, more liability than asset probably, a toxic brand destined for the TV chat show circuit or maybe a diplomatic role somewhere?
Is there a lesson for us in all this?
Maybe, maybe it's a warning about getting sucked in by the cult of personality.
Maybe a reminder about the difference between substance and showmanship.
Not thinking of anyone in particular.
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