Lucy Powell emerged victorious in the deputy leadership election of the Labour Party by advocating for a change in direction. She secured 87,407 votes from party members and affiliates, surpassing her rival Bridget Phillipson who received 73,536 votes. Notably, out of 970,642 eligible voters, only 160,993 votes were cast, resulting in a turnout of 16.6%.
The relatively low voter turnout suggests a lack of enthusiasm among party supporters for the current trajectory, posing a challenge for Ms. Powell to ignite activism. Following her removal from Sir Keir’s Cabinet in September, Ms. Powell hinted at rejecting a return to a government role to freely express her views on the party’s direction in power.
Critiquing Labour’s strategy against Nigel Farage’s Reform UK, she emphasized that mimicking Reform won’t lead to victory. Ms. Powell emphasized the need to reclaim the political narrative and drive the agenda forcefully, countering Farage’s blame on immigration for national issues.
In response to her win, the Prime Minister extended his congratulations, praising Ms. Powell as an “incredible” Deputy Leader. He expressed eagerness to collaborate with her as the Labour Government continues advancing the changes sought by the British populace.
Having first been elected as the MP for Manchester Central in 2012, Ms. Powell’s election as deputy leader marks the fourth instance of a woman holding this position in the Labour Party, following Margaret Beckett, Harriet Harman, and Angela Rayner.
In her resignation statement in the Commons, Ms. Rayner emphasized the importance of boldness for Labour, pledging to fiercely advocate for change. Despite resigning from multiple positions due to tax payment issues, Ms. Rayner vowed to uphold her socialist values and commitment in her new role.
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