Sadiq Khan, representing the Labour Party, has clinched a historic third term as London’s mayor, marking a significant setback for the Conservatives ahead of the anticipated general election. Khan’s victory dealt a blow to Tory ambitions of seizing control of the UK capital for the first time since 2016, as he comfortably defeated his Tory rival, Susan Hall.
At 53, Khan’s reelection underscores his enduring popularity, bolstered by a national surge in support for Labour and a decline in Tory fortunes. Widely anticipated to win, Khan not only secured his third term but also expanded his margin of victory compared to the previous contest in 2021.
The result compounds Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s woes, with his Conservative Party suffering a humiliating third-place finish in local council tallies, shedding nearly 500 seats across England. Labour’s gains extended beyond London, with victories in key mayoral races in Manchester, Liverpool, Yorkshire, and other regions.
In the West Midlands, where Tory incumbent Andy Street sought reelection, vote recounts were underway, with the outcome too close to call. A potential upset there could leave Sunak with minimal consolation, as the Tories managed to retain only one significant victory: the reelection of the mayor in Tees Valley, albeit with a significantly reduced majority.
Sunak acknowledged voter frustration in a statement to the Daily Telegraph but remained steadfast in his assertion that Labour’s success did not extend to areas crucial for a majority. He rallied his party, emphasizing the need to persevere in the face of adversity.
Labour capitalized on its momentum by seizing a parliamentary seat from the Conservatives in Blackpool South, prompting calls for a national vote from party leader Keir Starmer. Starmer urged supporters to embrace a new chapter of national renewal under Labour’s leadership.
With a general election mandated by January 28 next year at the latest, Sunak signaled plans for a poll in the second half of 2024. Labour’s sustained double-digit lead in polls during Sunak’s tenure reflects ongoing challenges for the ruling Conservatives, compounded by scandals and economic woes.
Thursday’s local elections saw Labour defending nearly 1,000 council seats, a stark contrast from their strong showing in 2021. However, despite significant losses, the party maintained a third-place finish behind the Liberal Democrats.
Analysts caution against overestimating Labour’s electoral prowess, pointing to concerns over the party’s performance in key areas. While the impetus to oust the Conservatives remains strong, doubts persist over Starmer’s ability to replicate the electoral success of past Labour leaders.
John Curtice, a polling expert, highlighted the discrepancy between anti-Conservative sentiment and genuine enthusiasm for Labour, suggesting that the road to electoral victory remains uncertain for the opposition.
