Crossword Genius

It’s hard being a former party leader (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

steel

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

This might be a double definition.

'it's hard' is the first definition.

'a former party leader' is the second definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe you can see a link between them that I can't see?

'being' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for steel that I've seen before include "brace" , "Structural metal alloy" , "Make hard and unfeeling" , "The staying power" , "Form of iron" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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