Starmer's Biggest Rival Is Auditioning for His Job

Luck was the quality Napoleon most prized in his generals — knowing that a good leader makes their own. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has come to look like an unlucky commander, having squandered a landslide general election victory by failing to inspire the voters with any sense of core purpose. And at minus 54 points in a recent poll, Starmer has also become “the most unpopular PM ever.” Labour members of Parliament fear he is on course to lead the party to inevitable defeat.

One key event that may have marked his card was a miscarried political operation, picking an unprovoked fight a few weeks ago with his characterful Health Secretary Wes Streeting, a deft communicator who does “human” — unlike the boss. An anonymous briefing was seen as a sign of nervousness in No. 10 and showcased the prime minister’s own shortcomings. A hurried rapprochement had to be made to limit the damage.