The fightback
In a series of interviews marking his first anniversary as Prime Minister, Keir Starmer has expressed a period of introspection. He acknowledged that his metaphorical warning from Downing Street had “squeezed the hope out,” stating, “We were so determined to show how bad it was that we forgot people wanted something to look forward to as well,” reports 24brussels.
A source close to No. 10 suggested that Starmer’s team has shifted their focus in the political landscape, indicating that their new adversaries are not merely the Conservative Party but the broader forces of populism, extending beyond just Reform.
“The PM can be a bulwark against populism and division. If the next election is going to be populism versus delivery, competence versus protest, I can’t think of a better person to do that than Keir,” the source remarked.
Supporters highlight that Starmer’s first year as Labour leader nearly ended in resignation following a significant loss in a key by-election. However, he persevered, countering skepticism, ousting multiple Conservative leaders, and ultimately securing a landslide victory. Starmer asserted that having addressed the Conservative government’s issues, voters will “see the difference that the Labour government made.”
Conversely, skepticism remains among some observers. A former Labour Cabinet minister expressed doubts about Starmer’s legacy, stating, “If you asked Keir Starmer to sit down and write on a piece of paper the three things he’d be remembered for in 50 years, what would he say? I bet he couldn’t do it.”
