The New Statesman | UK politics and culture A Labour crash is coming
Feb 13, 2025
David Smith, Labour MP for Northumberland and member of the Blue Labour group, discusses the shifting political landscape within Labour. He shares insights on Keir Starmer's strategic shift to embrace Blue Labour ideals and the party's attempts to reconnect with white working-class voters. The conversation delves into the ideological tussle between progressive policies and a more conservative, grassroots approach. Smith also highlights the growing influence of Blue Labour and its rising membership, suggesting a transformative moment for the party's future.
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Labour's Counter-Revolution
- Labour is making a significant shift to appeal to Reform and "blue Labour" voters.
- This is in response to a global conservative revolution and the threat of Reform UK.
Radical Policy Shift
- Labour's shift is radical, going beyond campaign rhetoric.
- New policies, like denying citizenship to illegal immigrants, show a deep change.
Starmer's Weakness
- Attorney General Richard Hermer is considered Prime Minister Starmer's biggest weakness.
- Starmer might be reluctant to replace him to avoid giving Kemi Badenoch a political win.