Oh God, What Now? Keir and Loathing – Are Labour misreading the Locals results?
11 snips
May 9, 2025 
Quinn Slobodian, a Professor of International History at Boston University and author of Hayek's Bastards, dives into the Labour Party's response to local election results. He questions whether Starmer's strategies are misguided, sparking a discussion on the shifting nature of right-wing politics and the challenges Labour faces in reconnecting with voters. The conversation also touches on the complexities of contemporary populism and the legacy of neoliberalism, revealing why the political landscape feels so volatile.
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Labour's Immigration Dilemma
- Labour fears losing its working-class identity and tries to appease voters worried about immigration.
- This leads to panic moves that may alienate Labour's actual supporters and progressive base.
Labour's Commitment to Net Zero
- Despite internal leaks about ditching net zero, Starmer is committed to it and supports Ed Miliband's leadership on the issue.
- Reform councils will challenge infrastructure building, but Labour expects voters to reconsider reform's policies over time.
Progressive Vote Split Effect
- Labour lost many votes to Greens and Lib Dems due to splintered progressive vote, not just to reform.
- Tactical voting among progressive parties may prevent reform from gaining strong parliamentary power.
