The Rest Is Politics: Leading 70. Sadiq Khan: Faith, power, and the truth about Boris Johnson
Apr 21, 2024
Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, discusses power dynamics, religion in politics, and decision-making challenges as a mayor. Topics include mental health stigma, empowering mayors for governance, and the complexities of political leadership. Khan also explores the immigrant experience, racial abuse, and the upcoming London election dynamics.
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Disillusionment with Johnson
- Khan retracts his previous liking of Boris Johnson, now calling him selfish, vindictive, and dangerous.
- He blames Johnson's behavior for lives lost during the pandemic.
Johnson's Kindness and Lack of Engagement
- Despite later criticism, Khan recounts Johnson's initial kindness, including a charming phone call and kind words to Khan's daughter.
- However, Khan also reveals Johnson's lack of engagement at City Hall and his obsession with becoming Prime Minister.
Limited Mayoral Powers
- Many Londoners are unaware of the Mayor's limited powers, especially compared to mayors in other global cities.
- Khan emphasizes the UK's centralized democracy, where he controls only 7% of London's raised taxes versus 50% in New York.