What drove UK approval ratings to plunge before Starmer quit?

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Keir Starmer's Departure Amidst Plunging Approval Ratings

Outgoing British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced his resignation on Monday, citing plunging approval ratings as the primary driver for his departure. Starmer, who took office in 2024, faced significant challenges in connecting with voters disillusioned by mainstream political parties and increasingly attracted to anti-establishment movements. His tenure was marked by efforts to mend relations with the European Union post-Brexit and maintain Britain's support for Ukraine, actions that garnered praise from European leaders but were overshadowed by domestic dissatisfaction.
Disillusionment with Mainstream Politics

Starmer assumed leadership following a period of economic slump and lingering divisions from the Brexit referendum. Similar to other European leaders, he struggled to win over a segment of the electorate that felt alienated from traditional political parties. This disillusionment fueled a rise in support for insurgent, anti-establishment parties that promised radical political change.
Perceptions of Charisma and Conviction

While Starmer's perceived lack of charisma was less of a hindrance in international relations, it significantly impacted his standing at home. He was frequently accused by the British public of lacking conviction, a characteristic that appeared to weigh heavily on his approval ratings and overall public perception during his time in office.
International Reactions Contrasting with Domestic Sentiment

European leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin, offered commendations, highlighting Starmer's statesmanship and his role in strengthening European and Ukrainian security, as well as resetting UK-EU and Irish-British relations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy also thanked Starmer for his consistent engagement and support. Conversely, US President Donald Trump offered a critical farewell, stating Starmer had "failed badly" on immigration and energy. Russia's special envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, controversially claimed some credit for Starmer's departure, attributing it to his "warmongering and consistently wrong policies," though this was later clarified as a personal opinion.

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What drove UK approval ratings to plunge before Starmer quit?

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