As Labour heads for a wipeout, a lesson: never fall for the 'adults in the room’ line again
Presenting himself as a serious, sensible ‘grownup’ was essential to Starmer’s rise to power. His premiership has revealed how hollow that message is
TL;DR
- The 'adults are back in the room' narrative was central to Keir Starmer's government's appeal, promising stability after years of political turmoil.
- This 'grownup politics' is described as an ideology that avoids addressing injustice and appeases the rich and powerful, often by highlighting a perceived contradiction in being 'pro-business and pro-worker'.
- The phrase 'adults in the room' is used as a way to shut down political debate when leaders lack substantive arguments for their positions.
- Starmer's lack of a clear political vision was seen as a precondition for his success, making him appear non-threatening to certain segments of the electorate and media.
- The breakdown of the two-party system and voter mutiny are presented as signs that the public is no longer accepting the 'rules' dictated by 'adult' politicians.
- The governing party's program was predicated on economic growth and state efficiency that did not materialize, leaving them without excuses and looking for scapegoats.