Optimism and Anxiety: Sky News Voters Panel Reacts to New Labour Government

Sky News panelists show optimism for incoming Labour government, though concerns linger

After Labour's decisive win, a majority of panel members felt positive about the nation's prospects. However, some remained skeptical about the potential for significant reforms under the new administration.

By Laura Bundock, news correspondent

Saturday, July 6, 2024, 1:

Most members of the Sky News YouGov voters panel have shown a guarded sense of hope regarding the newly instated Labour government.

In the recent general election, 23 of the 46 districts represented by our group switched political parties, and two-thirds of our participants voted for a different party than they did in the 2019 election.

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The committee has now issued its decision on the outcome of the election, where the Labour Party secured a sweeping win, bringing an end to 14 years of Conservative governance.

Interest was palpable. A previous supporter of the Conservatives shared with us, "I'm really looking forward to seeing what the future holds and what contributions this party will make."

However, another individual called the outcome "quite disheartening." They commented, "I've never supported Labour, which is quite unfortunate… but I believe they won't make any difference."

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A previous supporter of the Labour Party who switched allegiance to the Greens stated: "This vote was more about opposing the Tories and supporting Reform, rather than showing support for Labour."

We have been tracking our panel for the majority of the election season.

The members of the panel come from diverse political backgrounds and were all initially undecided as the election began.

A voter expressed, "Although I usually support the Conservatives, I believe it's time for something different."

Another individual expressed, "I really hope they follow through on their commitments and manage to keep tax increases to a minimum."

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"One individual expressed, "I believe the vote signifies a shift—a move away from ineptitude, corruption, and apathy."

Another commented, "After enduring four years under a severely inept administration, I express this as someone who leans to the right and typically isn't fond of Labour."

Explore further: Visualizing Labour's overwhelming victory through maps and charts. Get to know Victoria, the spouse of Sir Keir Starmer. Profiles of seven new MPs who have intriguing histories.

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Multiple individuals highlighted the growth of Reform UK, with one voter expressing relief that proportional representation isn't in place, noting, "I'm thankful that the percentage of votes for Reform voters doesn't translate directly into seats."

We inquired with our panel about the terms they link with the newly formed government.

Numerous encouraging words emerged, including "hopeful," "unique," and "optimistic."

The words "uncertain," "uninspiring," and "worrying" were also noted.

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Sir Keir Starmer explicitly pledged his commitment to those who did not support him in the election, though some members of our panel remained skeptical.

A supporter of the Reform party expressed concerns, stating, "The rising cost of living and energy expenses are making life harder. I'm looking towards Labour for positive changes in our situation."

A supporter of the Liberal Democrats expressed concerns, stating: "I'm apprehensive about any one party holding too much power, regardless of whether it's the Conservatives, Lib Dems, or Labour."

However, a hopeful Conservative supporter expressed, "I believe it's important to stay optimistic about what lies ahead, both in our local communities and across the nation, and fully support the fact that we are in a period of transition and need to embrace it."

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