How the Labour Deputy Leadership Race Could Reflect Keir Starmer’s Leadership
The Labour Deputy Leadership race has emerged as a pivotal moment for the party, reflecting broader sentiments about Keir Starmer’s leadership. Candidates Lucy Powell and Bridget Phillipson have been actively campaigning across the UK, participating in over 20 events, both online and in-person, engaging with party members.
Candidate Overview
Both candidates have varying strengths in their support bases. Phillipson boasts a larger number of MPs and endorsements from several trade unions. In contrast, Powell has gained significant backing from constituency parties and other affiliated organizations, such as the Society of Labour Lawyers.
Leadership Styles and Implications
The deputy leader’s role can transform based on who holds the position. Historically, this role has served as a loyal ally to leaders, facilitating interactions at events the leaders can’t attend. Alternatively, it can act as a counterbalance to leadership, representing party members’ discontent.
- John Prescott’s approach resonated with party members and voters alike during Tony Blair’s tenure.
- Tom Watson’s representation of the parliamentary party stood in stark contrast to Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership style.
This deputy leadership contest lacks radical differences between the candidates. However, it offers party members a platform to voice their opinions and frustrations regarding Starmer’s leadership. Recent polling indicates that many party members feel disillusioned with Starmer’s decisions and the party’s current standing.
Current Polling and Future Prospects
Polling suggests that Powell is currently favored to win the deputy leadership position. An anonymous cabinet member remarked, “We all know it’s going to be Lucy,” highlighting the widespread belief in Powell’s potential victory.
As the campaign progresses, party members will publicly express their sentiments in the upcoming election. If Powell wins, especially after being dismissed from her previous role, it may raise questions about Starmer’s leadership effectiveness. A source indicated that Powell’s victory could portray Starmer as lacking a “Midas touch.”
Phillipson is set to present her case in a studio appearance, aiming to improve her standing in the final days of campaigning. The outcomes of this election will undoubtedly have lasting implications on the Labour Party and its leadership dynamics.
