When Keir Starmer took over as leader of Britain’s Labour Party in 2020, the party was at its lowest point in 85 years after a big election loss. His main goal was to make Labour more likely to win elections again.
Now, after 14 years of Conservative Party governments, Starmer is close to becoming Britain’s next Prime Minister. Despite criticism that he lacks charisma, Starmer’s strategy to move Labour towards the center of British politics and appeal to more voters has worked well. Labour has taken advantage of public frustration with the Conservatives, who are now expected to lose a lot of their seats in Parliament.
As the likely next Prime Minister, Keir Starmer says he will prioritize what’s best for the country over what’s best for his party. He understands the responsibility that comes with such a strong mandate and wants to renew the nation and improve how politics serves the public.
With more than half of the 650 parliamentary seats counted, Labour looks set to win one of its largest majorities ever in the House of Commons. Later on Friday, Starmer plans to meet King Charles III to get permission to form a new government.
During his time as Labour leader, Starmer has worked to make the party more appealing to voters by moving away from its more socialist elements that were prominent under former leader Jeremy Corbyn. He took tough action against Corbyn for downplaying concerns about antisemitism in the party, suspending him and saying, “Sometimes you have to be tough to be a good leader.”
Starmer’s move towards the political center has upset some in his own party and others. He changed his mind on several important promises, like raising taxes, getting rid of university fees, and taking over more public services. His handling of Labour’s promise to invest heavily in green projects and his hesitancy to take a clear stance on events in Gaza have also caused debate.
In a recent speech, Starmer laid out a long-term plan for Britain. His first steps include cracking down on tax avoidance, reducing waiting times in the NHS, and hiring more teachers and local police. He also wants to renegotiate Britain’s relationship with the European Union after Brexit caused big economic problems. He says his modest campaign promises are just the beginning of what Labour could achieve if given the chance.
Despite criticism from both the left and the right, Starmer is determined to lead the country. Political scientist Tim Bale from Queen Mary University of London says, “He’s willing to do whatever it takes to get into power and has shown that.”
