Labour’s triumph in Blackpool South and control of various councils in northern England have dealt a significant blow to the ruling Conservatives, intensifying pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. This victory foreshadows a potentially game-changing national election, with polls indicating Labour leader Keir Starmer could assume power, ending the Conservatives’ 14-year rule.
In a closely watched local election, Labour’s Chris Webb secured victory in Blackpool with “10,825 votes,” while the Conservative candidate trailed with “3,218 votes.” This substantial swing of “26%” to Labour from the 2019 result marks the third largest in post-war by-election history, according to polling expert John Curtice.
Starmer emphasized the importance of this win, stating, “This seismic win in Blackpool South is the most important result today.” He interpreted the result as a clear message from voters to the Conservatives under Sunak, calling it an “overwhelming vote for change.”
Responding to the outcome, Conservative Party chairman Richard Holden acknowledged it had been “a tough night,” acknowledging the poor showing by his party. Sunak’s Conservatives currently lag behind Labour by about 20 percentage points in most national opinion polls, fueling speculation about his leadership.
The Conservative Party’s performance in the local elections, with Labour making gains at its expense, aligns with predictions of significant losses by finance minister Jeremy Hunt. While the Conservatives sought to highlight Starmer’s failure to secure control of a targeted southeastern council, Labour attributed some setbacks to issues like its stance on Gaza. Nevertheless, Labour’s national campaign coordinator, Pat McFadden, underscored the public’s desire for change, hinting at the mood on the eve of a general election.
The results of these local elections could have implications for Sunak’s leadership, particularly if they indicate broader dissatisfaction within the Conservative Party. The outcome of mayoral elections in the Tees Valley and the West Midlands, as well as in London where Sadiq Khan is expected to secure another term, will be closely watched for further insights into the evolving political landscape.
