Quote:
Originally Posted by Jack_
At this point in time, I too consider him unelectable. However, five years is a very long time in politics (a lot can change in a week let alone that long) and given the chance to build upon the movement he has already established, there is every chance that at long last he can shift the political direction and appetite towards true socialist, left wing ideals and policies. Rather than seeking divide and rule answers in parties like UKIP that blame immigrants, those on welfare and Europe for societal issues, he can hopefully address people's very real and very important concerns with other ideas regarding social housing, anti-austerity, tax avoidance, the list goes on.
It will not be easy, and he is going to face a barrage of abuse and smearing from the right wing press that has already begun, plus too a fear mongering narrative of economic and defence insecurity from the Conservatives that will be peddled day in, day out throughout his tenure, but I believe it can potentially be done, he just needs to address the issues that are important to the electorate whether we like it or not with alternative visions that don't revolve around blaming and shaming certain groups of people. Concrete policies that are attractive to working class and middle income people, and small business owners, rebutting the idea that Labour's economic management is unstable and pointing out that the Tories backed their spending plans pound for pound until 2008. If he and the rest of the party members can join together to create workable policies that address the mood of the electorate and offer a viable alternative and point out the flaws of the Tories, all whilst refraining from mud slinging, abuse and theatrical politics inside the commons, he may just be able to show Cameron and co up for what they are.
If an election were called now, he would lose catastrophically because Britain is a society that rests in the centre ground/ever so slightly to the right. But the reason I voted for him and the reason why I'm so excited and delighted at his victory is that at last genuine socialist, left of centre politics are about to be given a national platform for the first time in a very long time. Even if Corbyn steps down or is outsted before the next election, which at present I also think is a possibility, the hope is that Labour will learn that their traditional values is what they need to stick with. That is what the resounding message from their members and supporters is, and the career politicians who are dissenting at the moment need to either put up or get out. If people want the Tories, they can vote for the Tories. An opposition that is a watered down version of the party in government is not good for democracy, it disillusions thousands of people, makes politics and politicians look 'all the same' and is ultimately pointless.
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Great post Jack.
We really do need different parties that have different opinions and ideas.
I am all for old style Labour Party, not too far left but left enough to be an alternative to the Tory right.
We appear to have lost the lLib/Dems for now so no middle ground either.