Keir Starmer celebrates game-changing results in Tamworth and Mid Beds by-elections

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has hailed the recent by-election victories as a "game changer" for the party, demonstrating their ability to win in any constituency. The elections saw Labour overturn significant Tory majorities in Mid Bedfordshire and Tamworth. Sir Keir stated that these wins mark a redrawing of the political map, positioning Labour strongly for the upcoming general election expected next year. However, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak responded by acknowledging the disappointment in these results but highlighted the challenges faced by incumbent governments in mid-term elections. He also emphasized his commitment to delivering on the priorities of the British people. Despite lower turnout, the historical significance of the victories cannot be undermined. In Mid Bedfordshire, Labour overcame a 24,664 majority to secure the seat, marking the largest numerical majority overturned in a by-election. In Tamworth, there was a substantial swing of 23.9% from the Conservatives to Labour, the second-largest swing in a by-election since 1945. Sir Keir, speaking in Mid Bedfordshire, proclaimed the results to be a game changer, demonstrating Labour's potential to win seats they have never won before. He highlighted that some Tory voters may have turned to Labour due to disillusionment with their own party. Sir Keir further declared that Labour is now the party of the future and national renewal. The by-elections, triggered by the resignations of the previous MPs, sparked local anger regarding the circumstances of their departure. Former Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries stood down in Mid Bedfordshire after not being included on Boris Johnson's resignation honors list. The Tamworth by-election followed the resignation of former MP Chris Pincher, after losing his appeal against a proposed suspension for inappropriate behavior. Given Tamworth's strong pro-Brexit stance in 2016, Labour is hopeful that this victory indicates potential success in other leave-supporting areas during the general election. The Conservative candidates trailed behind their Labour counterparts, with Reform UK (previously Brexit Party) coming third in Tamworth. The Tories attributed the results to reduced turnout, with only 35.9% and 44% of the electorates voting in Tamworth and Mid Bedfordshire, respectively. Conservative Chair Greg Hands expressed the need to find better ways to engage and energize Conservative voters to support the government. He also pointed to legacy issues preceding Rishi Sunak's premiership. Right-wing Tory campaigners have seized on the results, advocating for a return to traditional conservative policies such as tax cuts and reduced immigration. The Conservative Democratic Organization and John Hayes, Chair of Common Sense Group of Tory MPs, called for a focus on the priorities of Tory voters.