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Polls open in U.K. local elections seen as a verdict on Keir Starmer's leadership
Polls opened on May 7, 2026 for midterm local and regional elections across England, Scotland and Wales, with around 5,000 local council seats and several mayors at stake. The contest is framed as a test of Prime Minister Keir Starmer's leadership, with Labour defending about 2,500 English council seats and facing potential gains by Reform U.K., Greens, Liberal Democrats and others. Results are expected by May 8 afternoon, potentially triggering leadership considerations within Labour.
Why It Matters
The local election outcomes could influence Labour's national political standing and future leadership dynamics, and may reshape the UK's party landscape with Reform U.K. and Greens seen as potential winners.
Timeline
5 Events
Bulk results expected
May 8, 2026
The bulk of results is expected to be declared on Friday afternoon, May 8, 2026, though some local authorities will count ballots overnight.
Polls open for local and regional elections
May 7, 2026
Polls opened at 7 a.m. local time for midterm local and regional elections across England, Scotland and Wales; polls close at 10 p.m.; some authorities will count ballots overnight, with the bulk of results likely declared on Friday afternoon (May 8). Labour is defending about 2,500 seats on English local councils as Reform U.K., the Greens and Liberal Democrats compete for gains.
Farage on eve of election comments
May 6, 2026
Nigel Farage said on the eve of the election that a strong result for Reform U.K. would mean Labour leader Keir Starmer is 'gone by the middle of summer.'
February leadership crisis over Mandelson appointment
February 2026
In February 2026, some Labour lawmakers, including the party's leader in Scotland, urged Keir Starmer to quit over the Mandelson appointment as Britain's ambassador to Washington.
Keir Starmer becomes Prime Minister
July 2024
Keir Starmer became Prime Minister in July 2024.