Is Boris Johnson Secretly Hoping for Joe Biden’s Victory in the 2020 US Presidential Election?

As the 2020 US Presidential Election approaches, one person's opinion is becoming increasingly intriguing to observe: British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Is it true that Johnson is secretly rooting for Joe Biden, the eventual victor, over US President Donald Trump? This article delves into the dynamics of this potential political alignment, examining the historical context and current state of UK-US relations.

Historical Context and Current Relations

The relationship between the UK and the US has always been complex and multifaceted. Since the early days of the Cold War, the two nations have formed a close alliance. However, in recent years, this relationship has seen its fair share of ups and downs, with Boris Johnson and Donald Trump's tenure in power being particularly marked by tension and discomfort.

Theresa May, the UK's Prime Minister before Johnson, made a notable visit to the White House in January 2017. Following this, Trump reciprocated by undertaking a state visit to the UK. Despite these outward gestures, there have been undercurrents of friction between the two leaderships. After leaving the hospital, Boris Johnson even took the time to call Trump from his residence at Chequers, a country retreat. This level of engagement might have been expected to strengthen the alliance, but in reality, it did not.

Current Tensions and Unspoken Desires

Recent reports have suggested that UK officials privately hope for a Biden win—that is, if Johnson truly is harboring such sentiments. According to The Times journalist Tim Shipman, an unnamed government minister hinted that a Biden presidency might bring about a more favorable foreign policy alignment for the UK. Specifically, Shipman noted that Biden's Irish heritage, preference for rebuilding the US-EU relationship, tougher stance on Russia, and support for NATO would likely be aligned better with UK interests.

The potential of a Biden administration also brings up the prospect of normalizing US-EU trade relations, which could be a significant boost for the UK's economy. Moreover, Biden's likely support for an UK-EU association agreement might provide a better diplomatic posture on the global stage. These factors could ensure that UK-US trade talks are not given priority in a Biden administration, given the anticipated focus on domestic and transatlantic issues.

Perceptions and Public Show

While Boris Johnson has publicly appeared to align himself with Trump, privately, he and many of his contemporaries might be deeply concerned about Trump's leadership style. Johnson himself has even admitted to privately finding Trump's intellect wanting. Many analysts argue that a Biden win would bring about a return to a more conventional and reliable leadership in the White House, which would help restore the UK's diplomatic standing in the world.

Lyndon Johnson, a former US President, famously had a positive relationship with Joe Biden, a fellow Democrat. This historical context highlights the possibility that similar ties could be maintained under a Biden presidency, providing a smoother path for international cooperation.

In conclusion, while the UK and US have maintained a close relationship, the 2020 election presents an opportune moment for reassessment. As Boris Johnson and his colleagues weigh their options, the prospect of a Biden victory seems to offer a stable and predictable alliance—one that could significantly benefit both nations.