Mark Drakeford, former First Minister of Wales, has openly admitted that voters are “fed up” with Labour following a crushing defeat in the Senedd elections. In candid interviews, Drakeford criticised both UK and Welsh Labour, expressing that the party’s strategies just didn’t resonate. Instead of listening to their core supporters, Labour tried to win over those unlikely to back them, which didn’t pay off. Voters were swayed by other progressive parties, leaving Labour in the dust.
In a think tank piece, Drakeford shared 10 reasons for Labour’s setback, pointing out “self-inflicted” wounds and a loss of public confidence. A tumultuous time under Vaughan Gething as First Minister didn’t help either. Drakeford also commented that the Prime Minister’s reputation continually came up on the campaign trail, signalling deep discontent among voters.
During a Channel 4 interview, Drakeford even suggested the Prime Minister should step down. He highlighted an enduring sentiment that it was “time for a change,” a slogan successfully used by Plaid Cymru in Caerphilly to gain ground against Labour. The by-election there, triggered by Hefin David’s passing, highlighted alternative options for beating Reform.
The Labour party, Drakeford believes, failed to demonstrate its commitment to devolution in the first two years under the Westminster government, once a strong selling point. Echoing a need for change, he observed that relationships within the Labour Party, both in Welsh and UK branches, remain strained.
Though Drakeford refrained from personal attacks, he admitted that the party is still ‘grieving’ the loss, with many candidates missing out on Senedd seats. The election prompted a realisation—people were ready for someone else to tackle the pressing issues.
What do you think? Is it indeed time for a change, or can Labour bounce back? Share your thoughts below!