Morgan McSweeney, the chief of staff to Prime Minister Keir Starmer and a longtime aide, has resigned from his position in Downing Street. This departure comes after a bitter internal row concerning alleged plots to undermine the prime minister, marking a significant shake-up within the Labour leadership.
Mastermind Behind Labour's Landslide Victory
McSweeney played a pivotal role in orchestrating Starmer's path to Downing Street, achieving a landslide election win less than five years after Jeremy Corbyn's devastating defeat in 2019. His strategic expertise was instrumental in transforming the Labour Party and securing a huge majority in the 2024 election.
Pressure Mounts Over Botched Briefings
McSweeney's position became untenable following a seemingly mishandled operation by Number 10 to bolster Starmer's authority. The operation involved pre-emptive briefings that Starmer would vigorously resist any attempts to remove him, which sparked fury from Health Secretary Wes Streeting. These briefings centred on Streeting, exacerbating tensions within the party.
Loss of Key Aides Compounds Turmoil
McSweeney's resignation follows the recent departures of two other aides closely aligned with Starmer: Paul Ovenden, the director of political strategy, and Steph Driver, the communications head. This series of exits highlights ongoing instability in the prime minister's inner circle.
Emblematic Departure Amid Criticism
McSweeney's exit is particularly symbolic given his foundational role in the Starmer project, which began with efforts to oust the hard left from Labour in Lambeth, south London. Despite his electoral successes, he faced criticism from within the party, especially among MPs who accused him of fostering a factional, petty, and cliquey atmosphere in Downing Street.
As details continue to emerge, this resignation underscores the challenges facing Starmer's administration in maintaining unity and effective governance.
