A Storm Brewing in Labour: Can Starmer Weather the Turmoil?
By Laura Kuenssberg
Is Keir Starmer's leadership on borrowed time? That's the question hanging heavy over the Labour Party as 2026 begins. Despite his confident assertion to me, "I'll be sitting in this seat by 2027," whispers of discontent are growing louder within his own ranks. But here's where it gets controversial: is ousting Starmer the key to stopping Nigel Farage and Reform UK from seizing power?
Our conversation, unusually lengthy, came on the heels of a whirlwind morning for the Prime Minister. He'd just spoken with Volodymyr Zelensky, grappling with the fallout from Donald Trump's shocking attack on Venezuela and the capture of Nicolás Maduro. By the time our interview concluded, Maduro faced charges in New York, a stark reminder of the relentless pace of global politics.
Starmer, perhaps buoyed by a recent respite at Chequers, seemed more energized than I'd seen him in months, a stark contrast to the beleaguered figure of late 2025, a year that dealt him one political blow after another. But are his hopes for a turnaround misplaced?
The grim reality is that many within Labour believe Starmer is simply not up to the job. Some are even advocating for a leadership change this year, a risky gamble with potentially dire consequences.
When I pressed him on this, Starmer was defiant. He repeatedly emphasized that his mandate would be decided at the general election, not by internal party squabbles. "This is the fight of our times," he declared, "and I intend to lead us."
And this is the part most people miss: While Starmer tries to downplay the significance of the upcoming May elections, focusing on local councils and devolved governments, the results will undoubtedly be seen as a referendum on his leadership.
Despite this, Starmer insists he won't be forced out, even if the elections prove disastrous for Labour. He attributes his current unpopularity to public impatience, promising a turnaround in 2026. He points to economic improvements, despite rising unemployment, and highlights government initiatives that will supposedly bear fruit.
He also made a surprising commitment to close asylum hotels before the 2029 deadline, though he stopped short of providing a specific date. On Ukraine, he cautiously expressed optimism about a potential peace deal, revealing discussions among Western allies about integrating forces to guarantee Ukraine's security.
Starmer's message is clear: 2026 will be the year we "turn the corner."
While his tone was more upbeat than usual, his arguments felt familiar. Critics continue to call for bolder action, more political direction, and a greater sense of urgency. When faced with such intense political pressure, is it time for Starmer to rewrite his script?
Governing is never easy, especially for an administration that has been consistently unpopular. But Starmer's troubles go beyond the inherent challenges of leadership. He and his team have made missteps, even in recent weeks.
He expressed regret for welcoming back Egyptian-British activist Alaa Abd El Fattah, whose past comments advocating violence against Zionists and police resurfaced. Starmer blamed "the system" for failing to flag these remarks, a deflection that rings hollow.
His close relationship with Trump, particularly after the Venezuela incident, presents another political minefield. As a former human rights lawyer who opposed the Iraq War, it's hard to imagine Starmer comfortably aligning himself with such aggressive foreign policy. He claims to be a "lifelong advocate of international law," but admits we lack the full picture.
Some demanded he condemn Trump's actions before our interview, and the government will likely face further pressure to clarify its stance in Parliament.
Brexit continues to simmer within Labour. While Starmer denies attempting to reverse Brexit, his newfound commitment to closer alignment with the single market will undoubtedly provoke accusations of backtracking on his previous promises. This move may appease some within his party, but it provides ammunition for Reform and the Conservatives to portray him as untrustworthy.
Last year, Starmer was often criticized for his gloomy demeanor. He's clearly attempting to project more optimism, but given the depth of his political woes, it's questionable whether this shift will resonate with critics or even his own allies.
Starmer is a cautious politician, a trait he readily acknowledges: "There's always a caveat with me." Supporters see this as a sign of steadiness, while detractors view it as a lack of political instinct.
This weekend, Starmer boldly proclaimed he'll survive the year and that better times are ahead. The glaring caveat? He can't guarantee his party, or more importantly, the public, will share his optimism.
What do you think? Is Starmer the right leader for Labour? Can he turn things around in 2026? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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