parties success rise and fall with the leader

Thesis Point 1 - Leaders shape public image of their parties

Usually depends on their appeal and charisma - The media focuses more on the leader.

Tony Blair centralised power in New Labour. He was very charamstic

Bojo - figurehead for Brexit

Anti-Thesis Point 1 - Strong leaders can't overcome poor policies or scandals

Johnson's downfall due to integrity and party mismanagement not cos of charisma.

Weak leaders can still lead parties if still in favour - John Major

Thesis Point 2 - Leaders crucial in times of crisis which define the party

Starmer - restored credibility after corbyn after antisemitism scandal. David Cameron calling for a referendum for Brexit led to his resignation, ultimately altering the Tories path

Anti-Thesis Point 2 - Leaders often reactive to existing problems

Structural issues (global, economic = political outcomes) 2008 under Brown .Party Unity + Backbenchers. Public mood matters aswell

Thesis Point 3 - They can shape a party’s electoral prospects

Undermining public trust or attitudes towards them can lead to electoral decline as they embody the party. Gordon Brown - “that bigoted woman” in 2010 reinforced negative stereotypes around Labour. The TV debates helped Lib Dems cos of Nick Clegg’s performance

Anti-Thesis Point 3 - Electoral outcome can be stable cos of core support

BOJO already had numerous scandals and ethical controversies yet in 2019 they got an 80 seat majority. This was mainly due to their emphasis on Brexit. Also John Major won a shocker election in 1992