Starmer Struggles to Reassert Authority After McSweeney's Departure
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is embroiled in a fierce struggle to reclaim command of the Labour Party following the resignation of his closest adviser, Morgan McSweeney. The exit comes amid escalating fury over the controversial appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador, a decision that has severely undermined trust within political circles.
Fallout from the Mandelson Affair
After enduring days of intense pressure, McSweeney stepped down on Sunday, accepting full responsibility for his counsel to send Mandelson to Washington. This advice was given despite Mandelson's known associations with Jeffrey Epstein, which McSweeney acknowledged had damaged confidence in both the Labour Party and the broader political system. In a formal statement, he declared the appointment was erroneous and that resigning was the only honourable course available.
Allies of Starmer hope that McSweeney's departure will help to calm rising discontent among Labour MPs and deter potential leadership challengers. However, losing such a pivotal figure—often credited as the architect of Starmer's ascent to power—represents a significant setback. The focus is now sharply returning to Starmer's own judgment in approving Mandelson's role.
Exposing Starmer to Political Peril
Senior Labour sources warn that McSweeney's resignation has left the Prime Minister dangerously exposed as he approaches critical policy and electoral tests. These include the impending Gorton and Denton byelection, outcomes that could decisively shape his political future. A source close to Downing Street remarked, Keir has just lost his firewall, on Mandelson and a whole load of other issues. Where does he think the anger gets directed next?
One MP expressed a grim outlook, stating, The buck ultimately stops with the PM. All this has done has bought him a little more time but he's mortally wounded and it's not if, it's when he goes. The pressure is expected to intensify with the imminent release of hundreds of thousands of documents, including private communications between Mandelson, No 10 officials, and ministers during his tenure in Washington.
Internal Criticism and Broader Implications
Political opponents and senior Labour figures have accused Starmer of allowing McSweeney to shoulder the blame for the Mandelson appointment, arguing that the ultimate decision rested with the Prime Minister's own political judgment. Allies of McSweeney countered this, noting he merely provided advice, with one asserting, He gave his advice, but that's all it was. Keir made the decision.
Since Labour assumed power, McSweeney has been a focal point for dissatisfaction among backbenchers and grassroots members, who criticised his factional approach and policies on issues like immigration and welfare cuts. A senior MP commented, It's about time. McSweeney was behind a string of terrible decisions because he cannot behave anything other than factionally.
Prominent Labour voices, including former Prime Minister Gordon Brown and ex-Home Secretary David Blunkett, have voiced concerns over Starmer's leadership. Brown acknowledged Starmer's integrity but noted he had been slow to do the right things, while Blunkett described the situation as dire and warned against internal briefing wars.
Aftermath and Future Prospects
In response to the resignation, Downing Street swiftly appointed Jill Cuthbertson and Vidhya Alakeson as acting chiefs of staff. Starmer expressed gratitude, stating McSweeney played a central role in Labour's election victory and deserved a debt of gratitude. However, this marks the second chief of staff departure from No 10 since Sue Gray's exit in 2024, highlighting ongoing instability.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch seized on the turmoil, urging Starmer to take responsibility for his actions rather than blaming others. Meanwhile, friends of McSweeney suggest he may step back from politics temporarily but is unlikely to remain on the sidelines permanently, given his 25-year career dedicated to Labour's cause.
As Starmer navigates this crisis, the Mandelson scandal continues to cast a long shadow, testing his ability to lead and unify a party grappling with internal divisions and external scrutiny.
