Keir Starmer was pictured enjoying a pint at a London pub after handing over the keys to No. 10 to Andy Burnham, sparking debate about his relatability. The former prime minister resigned four weeks prior under pressure from within the Labour Party, following Burnham's victory in Markerfield to become an MP.
Relatability in a glass
The image of Starmer drinking outside a pub drew widespread praise from those who had previously criticized him. Journalist Jacob Hawley wrote in Metro that the pint was 'one of the best-tasting pints he's ever had,' noting that even left-wing critics found it relatable. 'Relatable,' 'you would do the same,' 'respect,' 'he's just like me' were common responses, according to Hawley.
However, right-wing commentators, including GB News presenter Ben Leo, criticized the former PM for enjoying a drink while 'the country remains crippled.' Hawley countered that this was ironic given the same channel's support for Nigel Farage, who often drinks ale to appear relatable.
Starmer's struggle with relatability
Hawley argued that Starmer's key failing as PM was a lack of connection with the public. 'His guard was up,' he wrote, citing awkward moments like naming 'The Traitors' as his favorite film or saying he enjoys 'goals' in football. The pub moment, however, showed a human side: 'What's more relatable than, after a fairly hellish 6 months, slipping into your local boozer after a long day for a quick pint?'
The article noted that Starmer's successor, Andy Burnham, already appears more at ease, with social media posts about favorite albums and football. Hawley concluded that while Starmer's government had mistakes, 'in this unposed moment, in his local with a beer in hand, it feels churlish to pick holes.'
