Keir Starmer faced a challenging evening as Labour experienced significant losses in the English local elections. Nigel Farage’s party emerged as the clear winner, gaining over 300 seats while Labour lost more than 200 councillors to both left and right-wing political factions.
The downward trend for Labour started around 1 am when they began losing councillors. Reform UK secured notable victories in Halton, a stronghold for Labour, electing 16 new councillors.
The situation deteriorated further for Mr. Starmer as Labour lost its first council, Redditch Borough Council, followed by losses in Hartlepool and Tamworth, with Reform UK making substantial inroads in these areas.
The losses continued to mount for Labour, with over 20 councillors lost in Wigan, including Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy’s area. Additionally, Labour lost control of Exeter council to the Greens, and Reform UK gained 18 councillors in Tameside, Angela Rayner’s territory.
Labour now faces a crucial battle with the Green Party in London, historically a Labour stronghold. The loss of control in Wandsworth indicates a challenging outcome for Labour in these elections.
Pollster Luke Tryl described Labour’s losses to Reform and the Green Party as a “nightmare scenario,” leaving the party directionless. Political analyst Sir John Curtice suggested that Labour may not lose as many as predicted but cautioned that challenges remain, particularly in Scotland.
The Green Party made modest gains, securing councillors in various locations, including Chorley, Salford, and Exeter. The party anticipates further successes, especially in key target areas like Exeter, Oxford, and the Hackney Mayor race.
The Liberal Democrats celebrated victories in Stockport and Portsmouth councils but also suffered a setback in Hull. Declarations in Wales and Scotland are expected later, with the Scottish National Party likely to maintain power in Scotland despite recent controversies. Reform UK is poised to make significant gains in Scotland.
Labour is bracing for substantial losses in Wales, where it has held power since devolution in 1999. Trade minister Sir Chris Bryant acknowledged the challenging night ahead for Labour in Wales, expressing concerns about the party’s prospects.
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