The leader of a Western democracy became infamous for his unfiltered speech, disregard for political decorum and eccentric hairstyle.

He was dogged by rumors and allegations of improprieties, financial misdeeds and subsequent lies to cover them up.

He refused to admit mistakes or missteps and frequently accused critics of pursuing a vendetta against him.

He survived several attempts to remove him from office. But last week his luck finally ran out.

Boris Johnson, the United Kingdom’s prime minister, announced his resignation as Conservative Party leader.

Johnson was left with little choice but to step down after several high-profile members of his cabinet resigned in protest over his handling of misconduct allegations related to government officials.

Johnson delivered a trademark unapologetic resignation speech from Downing Street. “I’m sad to give up the best job in the world,” Johnson said, “But them’s the breaks.”

Much like Donald Trump, the former U.S. president he was often compared to, Johnson cast himself as a populist. His controversial comments, such as comparing Muslim women in face coverings to mailboxes, appalled many.

And much like Trump, Johnson breezed through sex scandals that in the past would have torpedoed any politician’s career.

Pundits can try to explain how both men retained such an iron grip on the loyalty of their supporters. Trump’s hold on his adherents reportedly has the twice-impeached ex-president — whose role in the Jan. 6 insurrection at the Capitol is still under examination and who is facing possible criminal indictment in New York for his financial dealings both before and during his presidency — considering another run for the office in 2024.

But Johnson’s resignation might also be a warning to Trump. Johnson was ultimately forced out not by yet another scandal, although that certainly played a part, but because his party didn’t think Johnson was a winner anymore.

Johnson served two terms as mayor of London and was the driver behind the 2016 “Brexit” campaign that saw the United Kingdom leave the European Union.

But last month, the Conservatives lost two parliamentary seats in special elections, leading many to think Johnson no longer had the electoral touch.

In the United States right now there is endless debate as to whether Trump’s endorsement can help or hinder Republican candidates. This fall’s midterm elections could decide whether Trump joins Johnson on the sidelines.

— EF