Even as scandal orbits No. 10 Downing Street, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson is living the good political life.

In a major special election victory this week, Johnson’s Conservative Party won the northern parliamentary seat of Hartlepool. Held by Labour since its establishment in 1974, history was made when Jill Mortimer defeated Labour candidate Paul Williams. The Conservatives are understandably elated. Not only do they retain a significant majority in the House of Commons, but this victory suggests the party is on course to advance that majority further in Labour’s heartlands.