Conversation so far:
What was the leadership contest?
At the time of the 2005 Conservative leadership contest, David Davis was Shadow Secretary of State for the Home Department.
What did he do under that position?
His Campaign Manager in the leadership contest was Conservative MP and Davis's deputy as Shadow Home Secretary, Andrew Mitchell.
Who else was in contact with?
CANNOTANSWER.
How long was in the home department?
CANNOTANSWER.
What can you tell me about david as a politician?
Davis was initially the front runner in the contest, but after a poorly received speech at that year's Conservative Party Conference his campaign was seen to lose momentum.

Question: Did he lose or win?
Self-contained rewrite: Did David Davis lose or win the contest for conservative leadership?