Keir Starmer's premiership is reportedly nearing its end, with 2026 speculated to be his final year as Prime Minister. This outlook is fueled by internal Labour party dissatisfaction, with a poll suggesting he is considered the worst Labour Prime Minister ever, even among Labour voters. Cabinet members, like Housing Secretary Steve Reed, are urging party unity despite Starmer's perceived weakness, acknowledging the significant challenges the party faces.
Backbench Labour MPs reportedly lack faith in Starmer's ability to secure another election victory and are concerned about losing their seats, leading to speculation about potential successors such as Andy Burnham, Angela Rayner, and Wes Streeting. Starmer's leadership is characterized by the introduction of unpopular policies that are later reversed, alienating his own MPs who are forced to defend them. This political instability is exacerbated by poor opinion poll numbers, placing Labour behind Reform and sometimes even the Tories, with the Greens posing a threat of overtaking them. Upcoming May elections are seen as a critical juncture that could intensify panic within the Labour party if they suffer significant losses.
The article asserts that Starmer's remaining time in office could inflict considerable damage on the UK. Specific concerns include the potential erosion of freedoms through policies such as limiting the right to a trial by jury and introducing compulsory digital identity cards. Additionally, the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, is criticized for her economic policies, which are blamed for low growth, inflation, and rising unemployment due to increased taxes and red tape on businesses. Starmer is also accused of abandoning his stance on Brexit, moving towards closer ties with the European Union and undermining the UK's independence in an effort to regain support from other parties. The article concludes by suggesting Starmer's political career is ending prematurely, with a risk of negative consequences for the country before his departure.