Keir Starmer's Approval and Scandals

Keir Starmer's recent approval ratings have significantly declined, coinciding with revelations about his acceptance of substantial entertainment perks, totaling about £100,000, from concert tickets to fashion items. This comes amid a broader context where Starmer has been vocal about condemning 'sleaze' in the Conservative party, creating a perception of hypocrisy that could damage his reputation. Anushka Astana notes that while initially these hospitality issues may not seem pressing, there exists a danger that they will resonate with voters over time, particularly in light of past political scandals that have shifted public perception swiftly. Additionally, Starmer's situation is further complicated by his wife's ties to a Labour donor, amplifying scrutiny from journalists and the public alike as Labour approaches its annual party conference.