Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy has compared Labour's poor local election performance to mere turbulence, but political commentator Matthew Torbitt argues that the situation is far more dire. In a scathing analysis, Torbitt claims that Labour is facing a 'crash and burn' scenario under Sir Keir Starmer's leadership, with traditional Labour strongholds like Salford, Wigan, and Hartlepool swinging to Reform UK.
Starmer's Refusal to Resign
Torbitt highlights that Labour chose to nationalise the local elections, urging voters to support local candidates as a show of confidence in Starmer's stance against Donald Trump. However, Nigel Farage's call to 'vote Reform to get rid of Starmer' resonated more strongly with the electorate. Torbitt argues that Starmer's refusal to take responsibility is damaging both the party and the country.
Growing Discontent Within Labour
According to Torbitt, Labour MPs from both the left and right are in disbelief at Starmer's conviction that the situation can be resolved with a speech or a reshuffle. He notes that Starmer's stubbornness rivals Boris Johnson's refusal to leave office in 2022, and that the party is crying out for change. Torbitt calls for Starmer to set a timetable for his departure, allowing a new leader like Andy Burnham to step in.
- Starmer's net favourability ratings are extremely low, with many voters unable to identify what he stands for.
- Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, holds a positive net favourability rating of +6 and is seen as a viable alternative.
- Torbitt warns that if Starmer remains, Labour risks handing Downing Street to Nigel Farage.
The Case for Andy Burnham
Torbitt has long advocated for Andy Burnham as a potential leader, citing his consistent popularity and ability to connect with voters. He argues that Burnham is the only politician who consistently polls ahead of Farage on the question of who would make a good Prime Minister. Torbitt calls on Labour MPs to urge Starmer to resign and allow Burnham to take over, warning that inaction will be complicit in the party's demise.
