In the upcoming weekend, Mona Juul will officially be inaugurated as the new leader of the Conservative Party, and with this position comes a big task: to revive a party that has experienced both a loss of members and a decline in the polls to around five percent. This comes in the aftermath of a period marked by internal turmoil and a significant shift to the right, which has caused division among the party’s members. One of the figures who has chosen to leave the party during the crisis is the former secretary-general Peter Sterup, who has been a member of the Conservative Party for almost 60 years. Sterup, who served as secretary-general from 1992 to 1998, has expressed dissatisfaction with the party’s previous direction, which he felt was moving too far to the right. With Mona Juul taking over as leader, he sees a possible path back to the party if it were to find a more centrist and inclusive direction again. Sterup is particularly interested in what he calls “Aarhus conservatism,” which he associates with Juul, who is running in Aarhus. This approach to politics involves a broader perspective and a deep respect for the party’s historical values. “That’s how it used to be,” points out Sterup, who does not rule out the possibility of rejoining if the party returns to its roots.
Mona Juul’s political experience is relatively limited as she is new to politics and has previously worked in the advertising industry. This can be seen as a disadvantage, but also as a fresh start for the party. Her ability to appeal to voters and bring about renewal will be crucial in determining whether she can turn the party’s fate around. Former leader and party veteran Per Stig Møller expresses optimism about Juul’s potential to make a difference. He highlights her charisma and ability to “break through the screen,” but also acknowledges the challenges that are evident from the stagnant polls. The Conservative Party stands at a crossroads, and with Mona Juul’s leadership, the coming months will show whether the party can return to a course that both respects its conservative roots and appeals to a broader range of voters.