The US midterm elections saw right-wing populists "shown the door" and progressives elected, according to Greater Manchester Mayor Bev Craig, who writes that hope has gone global.
Writing for The Mirror, Craig said the results marked a rejection of "the politics of fear, hate and racism" and a victory for those who want to tackle major issues. She argued that from the UK to the US, people are ready for real action on the cost of living, the housing crisis, and jobs and opportunities for young people.
Progressives win in Michigan and Manchester
Craig cited Senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed, who said of his defeated opponent: "Rather than try to unite us to contend with the crisis of gas or groceries, the opposition decided to try to divide us." She noted that they failed in Michigan and in Manchester too.
Reflecting on her own campaign in Greater Manchester, Craig described the largest by-election in UK history, held over the summer when the Prime Minister left to focus on the Labour Party and the country. She said that at the start of her campaign, things were too close to call, but she disagreed with suggestions she should sit it out.
A message of hope and action
Craig said her campaign message was one of hope, uniting communities and getting things done, which she credited with sending Reform packing on polling day. As Mayor, she pointed to free bus passes for 11 to 16-year-olds, investment in high streets, record numbers of social and council homes, and efforts to help people off the streets.
She also referenced a meeting in September with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani to discuss affordability and build a coalition of progressive left-wing mayors on both sides of the Atlantic.
Looking ahead
Craig concluded that there is cause for hope in the UK and the US, saying the march of far-right populists has been stopped in its tracks. She added that it is now up to progressives to show people they can radically improve their lives.
Marking 100 days since her election, Craig highlighted savings of £500 a year for families through free bus travel for 11 to 16-year-olds, a £60 million pothole fund, and investment in towns like Middleton. She also noted she will take part in the 24 Hour Run Against Homelessness for the Mayor's Charity.
