Now that the party is entering opposition for the first time since 2010, the search for a new leader is underway.
The former business secretary, Ms. Badenoch, is seen as a right-wing darling and has won over some party members with her no-nonsense demeanor.
Michael Gove, the former leveling up secretary who resigned as an MP during the election, is among her most ardent supporters.
During the election, Ms. Badenoch retained her secure seat in Essex North West.
In 2022, she entered the first Tory leadership election after Mr. Johnson resigned. In the first round of voting, she came in fourth place among the eight contenders.
On topics like identity politics, equality, and women’s rights, Ms. Badenoch has been vocal.
On the right, Ms. Braverman has developed a reputation as someone who doesn’t hesitate to express her views on immigration and law and order.
Mr. Sunak brought her in as home secretary, where she was able to command support and pander to the party’s right.
Her demotion in November 2023 due to remarks she made suggesting homelessness was a “lifestyle choice” might have had an impact on her reputation among Tory lawmakers.
Her staunch opposition to immigration, meanwhile, was well-liked by some party members.
