Starmer says Tories sliding into abyss and Reform is main challenger
GuardianMAY 23
UK: Starmer Describes Reform UK's Economic Plans as 'Fantasy'
Above: U.K. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer speaks to workers during a visit to Glass Futures in St Helens, Merseyside. Picture date: Thursday May 29, 2025. Image copyright: James Speakman/PA Images via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
Farage is a political opportunist with a feigned care for working-class voters. But while Reform's populism rings hollow and their numbers don't add up, cries of unserious politics won’t stop them alone. Starmer must offer a bolder, fairer vision: investing in public services, taxing wealth properly, and showing working people real change is possible without scapegoating others.
Right narrative
Starmer’s attack on Farage and Reform reeks of desperation. Rather than challenge Reform's policies, Starmer sneers at Farage’s background and attempts to scare voters away by likening him to Liz Truss. Unfortunately for him, the public aren’t fooled. Farage speaks to working people’s real frustrations, while Starmer only offers platitudes and panic amid declining support.