Eldon remained politically active for another four years; his last recorded speech in the House of Lords occurred in July 1834. By then, however, he was no longer a potent force in the upper House. Ill health restricted his attendance, and when he did participate in debate, his tone was frequently rambling and querulous. He often referred to his approaching demise, undoubtedly made more real to him by the deaths of his wife, brother, and son. While contributing to the struggle for the next seminal political issue, the Reform Act of 1832, he did not lead the opposition forces as he had done in 1829. Nevertheless, the debates on electoral and religious reform in his last years called forth from Eldon a clear expression of his vision of the State. As ever, the perception of danger provoked an answer, and as he perceived the danger of equality, he tried to rekindle support for government based on rank and responsibility.

Fundamental to Eldon's view of the good society was the notion of inequality. He described the English State approvingly as ‘like a great and glorious pillar – the people formed its base; then came those of a little higher rank; then still a little higher, until it reached the apex, on which stood the Monarch of the country.’ Rank, in its several layers, was based on a combination of wealth, ability, and virtue.