In a different kind of episode of the Blueprint Podcast, Emily Hewertson took to the studio, to give her take on the state of the centre right, as a “political influencer”.
She takes us through her unique journey in politics, tackling everything from her teenage start in the Conservative Party to navigating the turbulence of social media abuse and political reform. In a refreshing and none cliché manner, Emily offers listeners a fresh perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing young people today.
Emily’s political journey began at just 16 when she joined the Conservative Party. Despite her early start, her path hasn’t been without its challenges. Reflecting on a bold moment early in her life, she recounts the time she posed a pointed question to Nigel Farage, thinking it might get her kicked out of the party.
Her father’s surprising vote for Jeremy Corbyn was another pivotal moment in shaping her political perspective. This family dynamic underscored the importance of engaging with diverse viewpoints and helped fuel her passion for addressing misconceptions about conservatism. She notes that young voters are often turned off by the way Conservatives are unfairly labelled as far-right, but that she wants work to change that image.
As a prominent young voice in British politics, Hewertson is no stranger to the influence – and toxicity – of social media. Early in her career, she admits she was “obsessed with clicks,” a lesson she has since learned from as she aims to prioritise substance over sensationalism.
Despite its benefits, Emily argues that social media has become a breeding ground for abuse and misinformation. She speaks openly about the impact of online harassment, recounting a particularly difficult period when it really affected her. From drink-throwing incidents (readers may recall when she was oddly and falsely blamed for throwing a milkshake over Nigel Frage in the election campaign) to abusive tweets, she’s experienced the darker side of public life. Still, despite this, she remains committed to fostering healthier discourse, and the promotion of conservative values.
Hewertson also takes aim at the media’s role in amplifying fear about the future suggesting that they have a lot to answer for – highlighting how narratives of doom disproportionately affect young people. On the subject of free speech, she praises Elon Musk’s commitment to open dialogue while cautioning against the dangers of echo chambers.
And no conversation about modern British politics would be complete without addressing Brexit – particularly as this was where Emily’s story started. When asked if it’s been a success, Hewertson let out a big sigh, acknowledging the Government’s failures on immigration while reaffirming, “100% I’d still vote for Brexit.”
Her reflections extend to the broader Conservative Party, describing Rishi Sunak as ‘too corporate’ and reminiscing about the more dynamic Boris era – describing him as the last personality in politics.
Interestingly, Hewertson reveals she almost joined the Reform Party, praising their growing seriousness but stated that for now at least she will be remaining loyal to the Conservatives, fighting for its success. However, she did express her belief that figures like Nigel Farage belong in the Conservative Party, though she understands why he has stayed out.
It is clearly a dynamic that is going to be spoken about more in the years ahead and Reform continue to grow. And with reports that Gen-Z are backing reform in significant numbers, perhaps it is of little surprise that Hewertson is more open than others in the party to some sort of deal between the Conservatives and Reform.
Through it all, Hewertson’s resilience and conviction shines through. Whether recounting her brief stint as a political staffer or defending her support for figures like Priti Patel in the Tory leadership, she consistently demonstrates a commitment to her principles, even in the face of adversity.
For listeners seeking a different take on the state of British politics, social media’s impact, and the future of conservatism, Emily Hewertson’s episode of the Blueprint Podcast certainly provides this and provides a refreshing juncture from the views of those embedded in Westminster.