London’s political corridors are buzzing with tension as Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces mounting calls to step down over his controversial appointment of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador. Despite the uproar linking Mandelson to the infamous Jeffrey Epstein, Starmer’s office insists the leader remains steadfast in his duties.
Starmer’s spokesperson addressed the media frenzy head-on, declaring that the Prime Minister is ‘fully focused on delivering change across the country.’ This firm statement came mere hours after two top aides—his communications chief and chief of staff—tendered their resignations, shaking the foundations of his administration.
The scandal erupted when revelations surfaced that Starmer had nominated Mandelson despite known ties to Epstein, the US sex offender convicted in 2008. Opposition parties have pounced, accusing the Labour leader of poor judgment just 19 months into his tenure.
BBC reports highlight Starmer appearing ‘happy and confident’ while addressing staff this morning. His spokesperson dismissed rumors of a weekend exit, emphasizing, ‘The Prime Minister you saw this morning wasn’t someone contemplating resignation.’
McSweeney, Starmer’s closest advisor and architect of Labour’s 2024 election victory, resigned dramatically on Sunday. In his statement, he labeled the Mandelson appointment a ‘mistake’ that damaged the party, the nation, and politics at large, taking full responsibility for his counsel.
The Foreign Office has now launched a review of Mandelson’s exit payment, adding fuel to the fire. Recall that Starmer sacked Mandelson from the ambassador role last September precisely over his Epstein connections.
As pressure mounts, Starmer claims unanimous Cabinet backing and vows to press on with his agenda. The coming days will test whether this scandal derails his government’s momentum or if he weathers the storm.