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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
David Maddox and Kate Devlin

Working-class voters are shifting from Labour to Reform. Here’s why

  • New analysis reveals Labour is increasingly becoming the party of wealthier voters, with those earning over £70,000 more likely to support them.
  • Working-class voters, particularly those earning £20,000 or less, are significantly shifting their allegiance to Reform UK, which leader Nigel Farage claims is now the true party of the working class.
  • This political realignment is linked to working-class discontent over the cost of living crisis, reliance on public services, and issues like Brexit and immigration.
  • Reform UK is attracting these voters with specific policy promises, while Labour defectors to Reform are often less educated and voted to leave the European Union, the analysis found.
  • The findings indicate a broken traditional link between Labour and its working-class base, prompting calls for a party reset following internal disputes over welfare reform.

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