Political Earthquake as Starmer Slumps and Farage Rises
In a dramatic shift in the UK’s political landscape, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has recorded his lowest ever popularity rating, while Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK, is gaining traction with voters across party lines. The latest YouGov poll, published in May 2025, reveals a stunning drop in Starmer’s net favorability to -46%, while Farage’s has improved to -27%. These figures could reshape the next general election and signal growing public discontent with the current government.
With Farage’s appeal broadening and Starmer facing dissent from within his own party, political analysts warn that the Labour leader must urgently reconnect with his base or risk losing electoral ground to alternative right-wing populist forces.
Starmer’s Popularity Collapse: The Numbers Behind the Decline
According to the YouGov poll:
- Only 16% of respondents currently hold a favorable view of Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
- A staggering 62% view him unfavorably, giving him a net score of -46%.
- Among Labour voters, the damage is especially striking. In mid-April, 62% of 2024 Labour supporters had a favorable view of Starmer. That figure has now dropped to 45%, while 50% now view him unfavorably—the first time he has held a net negative rating among his own base.
These numbers underscore a growing frustration within the Labour electorate, many of whom feel disconnected from Starmer’s centrist policies and his perceived failure to deliver on key pledges such as housing reform, immigration control, and public sector investment.
Nigel Farage on the Rise: Reform UK Gains Steam
While Starmer’s ratings tumble, Nigel Farage is experiencing a surge in support:
- 32% of Britons now view Farage favorably, a five-point increase from the previous month.
- His net favorability score has improved to -27%, the best it has been since he re-emerged on the political scene as leader of Reform UK.
- Farage’s rise is cutting across party lines, with notable gains among traditional Conservative and even Labour voters. Among 2024 Labour supporters, his net score has improved from -79 to -64—a 15-point shift in just one month.
This upward trajectory reflects a renewed interest in Farage’s brand of populism, with his anti-immigration rhetoric, skepticism toward green policies, and tough stance on crime resonating with a frustrated segment of the electorate.
Why Are Voters Turning Away from Starmer?
Several factors are contributing to the collapse in support for Starmer:
- Perceived indecisiveness on key issues like NHS reform, housing, and border control.
- Growing disillusionment among young voters and progressive factions of the Labour base, who feel Starmer has abandoned the party’s traditional values.
- Economic pressures, including inflation, energy costs, and public sector strikes, which have damaged the government’s image.
Critics argue that Starmer’s leadership lacks authenticity and emotional connection. “He’s seen as managerial, not inspirational,” one political commentator noted. “People want a leader who stands for something, and increasingly they don’t see that in Starmer.”
Farage’s Strategy: Capitalizing on Voter Frustration
Nigel Farage has proven adept at reading the political mood. With his media presence, particularly through GB News and social media, Farage has positioned himself as the outsider offering “common-sense” solutions. His focus on:
- National sovereignty
- Strict immigration controls
- Cutting government waste
- Opposition to “net zero” climate policies
…has found an audience among working-class voters and disaffected Conservatives and Labour loyalists alike.
Farage’s message is simple and provocative—qualities that resonate in an era of political fatigue and skepticism. While his overall net approval remains negative, his momentum signals potential to disrupt the status quo.
Implications for Labour and the Next Election
This polling shock is a wake-up call for the Labour Party. If current trends continue, Labour risks alienating its core voters while failing to convince centrists. Starmer’s leadership will be under increasing pressure from both the left and the right of his party.
Potential outcomes include:
- Internal challenges to Starmer’s leadership if polling continues to decline.
- Electoral gains for Reform UK in marginal seats, splitting the vote and benefiting Conservatives or creating hung parliaments.
- Increased scrutiny of Labour’s policies on key issues such as immigration, energy, and public spending.
Labour must urgently reconnect with its base while articulating a bold, inspiring vision for Britain’s future.
Conclusion: A Political Crossroads for Britain
The latest YouGov poll paints a troubling picture for Keir Starmer and the Labour government. As public confidence wanes and Nigel Farage surges in popularity, Britain’s political map may be on the verge of dramatic realignment.
Whether this shift represents a temporary protest or a long-term transformation remains to be seen. One thing is clear: voters are searching for alternatives, and unless Labour adapts quickly, Reform UK and its outspoken leader may turn public frustration into a powerful political force.
FAQs
1. What is Keir Starmer’s current approval rating?
According to the May 2025 YouGov poll, he has a net approval rating of -46%, with only 16% viewing him favorably.
2. How is Nigel Farage performing in the polls?
Farage has a net favorability of -27%, up significantly from previous months, with support rising among voters from all major parties.
3. Why is Starmer losing support among Labour voters?
Critics cite his centrist policies, lack of bold action, and failure to address key voter concerns like housing, immigration, and NHS funding.
4. Could Reform UK become a serious electoral threat?
Yes. With rising support and a populist message, Reform UK may pull votes from both Labour and Conservatives in the next election.
5. What’s next for Labour?
Labour will likely face internal pressure to realign with its base and clarify its vision to halt the downward trend in support.
