Sir Keir Starmer is marking his first 100 days in office. When his press spokesperson was asked ahead of the big day if the prime minister thought it had been a successful start, he simply said: “It’s up to the public to decide that.”
The verdict is in, and it isn’t good: Sir Keir’s approval poll ratings last week fell to -33 – a drop of 44 points since his post-election high, while one poll put Labour just one point ahead of the Tories. A poll out this weekend by YouGov finds nearly half of those who voted Labour in the last general election feel let down so far, while six in 10 disapprove of the government’s record so far, against one in six who approve of the Starmer government.
For Sir Keir, it’s been 100 days he might in many ways want to forget. By pretty much any measure, it’s been a disappointing start. From opinion polls to party management to the operation of Number 10, Sir Keir has been in difficulty. That a prime minister felt compelled to overhaul his top team and replace his chief of staff Sue Gray before his 100-day anniversary says it all.
It has been, admits one senior government figure, an “incredibly frustrating” period in which the work of government has been drowned out by the mess around Downing Street power struggles and rows over concert tickets, spectacles, and suits. The new administration has also faced challenges with race riots, prison places, and funding shortfalls identified by the chancellor.
Sir Keir has taken a huge gamble by replacing his chief of staff with his political strategist. While this move may bring fresh perspective, it raises questions about the government’s ability to function effectively. The dysfunction within the operation of Number 10 reflects poorly on the prime minister’s leadership capabilities.
Despite the rocky start, the prime minister can take comfort in the fact that the first 100 days do not define the success of a leader. President Bill Clinton faced challenges in his first term but went on to win a second term. Sir Keir has a majority and an opportunity to reset his government’s agenda moving forward.
As Sir Keir approaches the investment summit and budget announcements, the focus is on governing effectively and setting the stage for the future. While the first 100 days may have been tumultuous, the prime minister has the opportunity to course-correct and demonstrate strong leadership in the coming months to regain public trust and confidence.
