Kemi Badenoch Faces Backlash Over Autism Remarks in Tory Leadership Race

Badenoch's campaign pamphlet sparks controversy by linking autism with economic privileges, drawing criticism from both within and outside her party.

Badenoch's leadership campaign released a document suggesting that autism and other neurodiversity diagnoses confer economic advantages, which has been widely criticized.
The pamphlet's conflation of autism with anxiety and other mental health conditions has been described as muddled and lacking evidence by critics, including fellow Tory Robert Buckland.
Families of autistic individuals have refuted claims of economic benefits, highlighting the significant financial and bureaucratic challenges they face.
Badenoch's comments are part of broader criticisms she has faced, including her views on maternity pay and minimum wage, which have been perceived as targeting vulnerable groups.
The controversy raises questions about the Conservative Party's direction and its ability to present a viable opposition under Badenoch's leadership.