Why Western working class chooses someone like Trump
Date
11/13/2024 7:08:47 AM
(MENAFN) As Keir Starmer faces questions about receiving over £100,000 ($128,860) in gifts from the wealthy Lord Ali, a similar scandal has unfolded in Australia, implicating Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Both leaders, who often tout their working-class roots—Starmer frequently referencing his toolmaker father and Albanese his upbringing in a public housing estate—have long since distanced themselves from the interests of the very working-class voters they claim to represent.
The key issue lies in their acceptance of generous gifts from the global elites they ultimately serve. While Albanese’s level of involvement in such controversies pales in comparison to Starmer’s, he too has been criticized for leveraging his relationship with former Qantas CEO Alan Joyce, receiving upgrades and perks over the years. Albanese also came under scrutiny for making decisions that seemed to benefit Qantas, including restricting competition from Qatar Airways, and recently for purchasing a $4.5 million seaside mansion, raising eyebrows as ordinary Australians face housing affordability struggles.
This behavior sharply contrasts with that of former UK Labour leader Gordon Brown, who refused gifts and paid for all his personal expenses while in office. Brown left office in personal debt, a fate that seems highly unlikely for either Starmer or Albanese. Their actions highlight a growing disconnect between political elites and the working-class voters who, in some cases, turn to figures like Trump, who are seen as more aligned with their frustrations and interests.
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