Scottish Labour Leaders Slam Keir Starmer’s Government
Senior Scottish Labour figures are not mincing words when it comes to their assessment of the party’s first seven months in power. According to reports, they believe it has been nothing short of a “shitshow”. This scathing critique comes at a crucial time as the New Statesman magazine recently published an article examining Anas Sarwar’s diminishing chances of becoming the First Minister after the 2026 Holyrood elections.
An Uphill Battle for Anas Sarwar
The New Statesman article highlighted the challenges facing Anas Sarwar and his party as they gear up for the upcoming elections. While there is a glimmer of hope for Labour to seize power, the road ahead appears rocky. The prospect of a fifth consecutive SNP victory looms large, with Labour sources expressing cautious optimism about their chances in 2026.
During the 2024 General Election, Labour’s strategy of targeting the Conservatives while leaving attacks on the SNP to the Tories and LibDems did not yield the desired results. Looking ahead to 2026, strategists are planning to take a different approach by rebuilding an “anti-SNP alliance” and focusing on direct attacks on their political rivals.
The Balancing Act: Winning Constituencies and Maintaining Support
As the political landscape evolves, the outcome of the 2026 elections hangs in the balance. The fate of both Labour and the SNP hinges on their ability to secure constituency MSPs. A senior figure within the party emphasized the importance of winning constituencies to offset potential losses on the list, highlighting the need for a strategic approach to garnering support.
However, external factors such as the unpopular policies of the Labour Government in Westminster have taken a toll on public perception. Decisions to cut the Winter Fuel Payment and neglect compensation for Waspi women have contributed to a decline in support for Labour, painting a challenging picture for Sarwar and his team.
A Harsh Reality Check: Polling Data Reveals Struggles
Despite Labour’s success in the 2024 General Election, recent polling data paints a grim picture for the party in Scotland. A sharp decline in support since Keir Starmer assumed office last July has left Labour reeling. A poll conducted by Electoral Calculus and PLMR revealed that Scottish Labour’s support has plummeted to 18%, indicating a significant loss of backing from voters.
In contrast, Reform UK has emerged as a formidable contender, polling at 17%, while the SNP’s support remains relatively stable at 31%. This shifting landscape underscores the challenges that Labour faces as they navigate a turbulent political climate in Scotland.
Looking Ahead: Optimism Amidst Challenges
Despite the daunting obstacles that lie ahead, Labour’s leadership remains cautiously optimistic about the future. While acknowledging the grim reality of current polling data and the challenges posed by the Labour Government in Westminster, there is a sense of resilience within the party. The road to 2026 may be fraught with challenges, but Sarwar and his team are determined to forge ahead with confidence.
However, as Sarwar grapples with internal and external pressures, including criticism for unmet promises regarding the closure of Grangemouth, Scotland’s sole oil refinery, the path to victory remains uncertain. Balancing competing interests and navigating complex political dynamics will be key to Labour’s success in the upcoming elections.
In conclusion, the road to 2026 is paved with uncertainty and challenges for Scottish Labour. As they navigate a shifting political landscape and contend with internal and external pressures, the party’s resilience and strategic acumen will be put to the test. Only time will tell whether Labour can overcome the odds and emerge victorious in the face of adversity.
