In the latest round of elections, the Conservative Party suffered a significant setback, losing over 400 council seats while Labour secured victory in the Blackpool South by-election. Labour Leader Sir Keir Starmer interpreted the results as a clear message from voters to Chancellor Rishi Sunak that change was desired before the upcoming general election, considering it the last major test of public opinion.
Nearly 90% of the 107 councils up for election have declared results so far. Sir Keir emphasized the Blackpool result, where Labour achieved a remarkable 26% swing, as indicative of the nation’s desire for change. He asserted that the message from Blackpool resonated nationwide, signaling a demand for a new direction in governance.
Despite the Conservative losses, there was a glimmer of hope for the party as Ben Houchen secured a third term as Tees Valley Mayor, albeit with a reduced majority. Chancellor Sunak highlighted this success as evidence that voters would continue to support the Conservatives in the general election, attributing their loyalty to the party’s vision for a brighter future.
However, leading pollster Sir John Curtice cautioned against overinterpreting Lord Houchen’s victory, suggesting that it was primarily due to his personal popularity rather than a reliable indicator of the Conservative Party’s overall standing.
Meanwhile, former Conservative vice-chair Ben Bradley faced defeat in his bid to become the first mayor of the East Midlands, with Labour’s Claire Ward clinching victory. Labour also celebrated wins in other mayoral races, including the North East and York and North Yorkshire.
The results underscored the deep divisions within the Conservative Party, with some MPs urging Chancellor Sunak to heed the electorate’s message and adopt a different approach, while others rallied behind his leadership.
Labour’s success in regaining control of key council targets like Hartlepool and Thurrock was tempered by losses in areas with significant Muslim populations, attributed in part to the party’s stance on Gaza.
Meanwhile, smaller parties like the Workers Party of Britain and Reform UK made gains in certain areas, signaling dissatisfaction with the major parties. The Green Party also saw an uptick in support, poised to secure a record number of councillors.
The Liberal Democrats celebrated victories in Tunbridge Wells but fell short in other target areas like Wokingham. Party leader Sir Ed Davey interpreted these results as a sign of growing frustration with the Conservative government’s policies.
In the Blackpool South by-election, Labour candidate Chris Webb secured victory over Conservative David Jones, marking a significant swing from the Tories to Labour. Overall, it was a disappointing outcome for the Conservatives, who suffered losses across various councils and faced challenges from smaller parties.
With votes still being counted in many areas, the final outcome remains uncertain, but the elections have undoubtedly reshaped the political landscape and set the stage for the upcoming general election.