UK Prime Minister’s popularity hits record low

According to CNBC, one year after Starmer assumed the role of Prime Minister, despite notable successes in trade and economic policy, public satisfaction with him has plummeted to its lowest level. A poll conducted by YouGov indicates that 69% of respondents have an unfavorable opinion of Starmer, while only 23% hold him in high regard.

CNBC highlighted that the most concerning issue for Starmer, as the leader of the Labour Party, is his declining popularity among party supporters. Currently, 50% of Labour Party respondents view him unfavorably, a 17% increase compared to the last poll in April. Meanwhile, the percentage of Labour supporters with a favorable view of the Prime Minister dropped from 62% to 45% over the same period.

From the perspective of CNBC’s analyst, while Starmer may take pride in his economic achievements, the persistent cost-of-living pressures continue to cause concern among ordinary Britons. Additionally, businesses are facing increased taxes.

Data released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) last Wednesday shows that the UK’s annual inflation rate reached 3.5% in April, exceeding expectations and marking a significant rise from 2.6% in March.

This data also indicates increased pressure on households, with electricity, gas, and other fuel prices rising by 6.7% in the year to April 2025. Meanwhile, the ONS reported that water and sewage prices surged by 26.1% in the month ending in April, the largest monthly increase since February 1988.

Starmer’s personality issue as Prime Minister

While some circles appreciate Starmer’s calmer and less controversial approach compared to politicians like Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform UK Party, or former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, he continues to face criticism regarding his leadership style and lack of charisma.

Bill Blain, strategist and founder of Wind Shift Capital, commented, “Starmer has many positives; [securing] trade deals is one of them. But he lacks the charisma for prime ministership.”

He added, “He’s dull, boring, and meticulous. He’s capable but lacks the personality for prime ministership and political charisma. Farage has these qualities in abundance. So did Boris Johnson.”