Jo Swinson is a formidable fighter, but an unwillingness to compromise over Brexit could be her undoing
Editorial: Brexit has destroyed many of the familiar conventions of British politics. Routinely writing off the Lib Dems and their leader is another assumption that cannot be relied on
If there is such a thing as a natural political leader, then Jo Swinson certainly qualifies for such a title. She has taken to the role as if born to it.
Since she was elected to head the Liberal Democrats in the summer, Ms Swinson has asserted herself in formidable fashion. Building on the recovery job undertaken by her predecessor, Vince Cable, she lead her party to an impressive result in the European elections, beating both the Labour and Conservative parties (albeit trailing Nigel Farage’s latest Brexit vehicle).
Where once a claim by a Lib Dem leader that they could become prime minister was met with embarrassed giggles all round, there is no such reaction to the audacity of Ms Swinson’s claim. It is rooted in a solid base of support in the polls, and the fact that the British electorate is in a febrile and volatile mood. Brexit has destroyed many of the familiar conventions of British politics. Routinely writing off the Lib Dems and their leader is another assumption that cannot be relied on.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies