West Midlands Mayor Andy Street Distances from Conservative Party Ahead of Elections
In the run-up to the local elections, Andy Street, the mayor of the West Midlands, is taking a unique approach to his campaign. Street, a Conservative, has built a personal brand that downplays his party allegiance and has even had public disagreements with Sunak, notably over a cancelled high-speed rail project. His strategy reflects a broader trend as the Conservative Party braces for potential losses in the upcoming local votes.
Street’s tenure as mayor since 2017 has been marked by a conscious effort to separate his identity from the traditional Conservative image. His campaign materials feature green instead of the party’s blue and avoid mentioning his affiliation with the Conservatives or Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. This move comes as the party lags behind Labour by about 20 points in national polls.
The former John Lewis managing director’s stance is not without precedent; he has consistently prioritized regional interests over party lines. “It was a very good example of putting the place I represent before the party label,” Street commented on his row with Sunak. His approach seems to resonate with some voters who appreciate his focus on local investment and development.
Despite the challenges facing the Conservatives nationally, Street’s personal approval ratings suggest he may still have a fighting chance in the West Midlands. While one poll shows him trailing the Labour candidate, another indicates a slight lead for Street. His success could provide a much-needed respite for Sunak, whose leadership has been under scrutiny following a tumultuous period for the party.
As the local elections draw near, all eyes are on regional mayors like Street and their ability to navigate the complex political landscape. Their campaigns could set the tone for future strategies within the Conservative Party, especially in areas where traditional party branding may no longer suffice.
