Shockwaves at Andy Street’s election exit
SOME voters were left in shock after Andy Street was ousted as West Midlands mayor in a dramatic finish to Saturday’s election.
Labour’s Richard Parker was formally voted in as the region’s new mayor after beating Tory Mr Street by a mere 1,508 votes.
Mr Street, 60, was seen by many as a popular figure in the region having been mayor since 2017. He and his team were hoping for a historic third term at the helm and had been tipped to do so before falling short.
Political analysists suggested Mr Street’s bid wasn’t helped by his ties to the Conservative Party, which remains far behind Labour in the polls nationally. Social media was flooded with posts following the mayoral result which was announced late in the evening after a dramatic vote recount was ordered in Coventry.
Mr Street said it was his “honour” to serve the region and hoped he had done so with “dignity and integrity” following the shock result. Mr Parker, during his victory speech, thanked Mr Street for his time in charge.
He told Mr Street: “I absolutely believe that, whilst our politics are different Andy, we both have the best interests of the West Midlands at heart.”
Birmingham Mail readers’ comments included Johanna Clarke, who said: “I had so much respect for Andy.
“He fought tooth and nail for the West Midlands. Thank you Andy and hope you stay fighting for us.”
Ray Burston said: “Truly gutted for this guy. I might not have always agreed with everything Andy Street said or did, but – regardless of politics – he has proved to be an absolutely cracking mayor and tireless advocate for, and defender of the best interests of the West Midlands.”
Joan Cantelo added: “Disappointing. Thought Andy Street did a good job.”
Disagreeing, Melly Welly said: “Good riddance. The Andy Street photo opportunity roadshow is thankfully over.”
On social media platform X, Jonn Elledge that Mr Street had “always struck” him as a “decent man”. He added: “Especially by the standards of the modern Tory party.”
Adem Waterman wrote: “It’s bonkers that Andy Street lost his West Midlands seat. He didn’t lose it because of skill, character or professionalism.
“He lost it because the Tory party is rotten to it’s core. He lost it because of the bile that has come out of government for the last 14 years.”
Another user wrote: “Bye bye Andy Street. Should have gone independent.”
Reaction from MPS and high-profile figures Broadcaster and media personality Carol Vorderman said both Mr Parker and Mr Street had “obvious pride in their home”. She added that the pair “spoke beautifully” during their speeches.
Labour Leader Sir Keir Starmer said after the result: “Tories felt they were entitled to victory here, that they didn’t have to be in touch with the priorities of the people. We ran a completely different campaign.”
Mid Worcestershire MP Nigel Huddleston said: “Andy Street is one of the most decent and hard working people in politics. It’s been a pleasure to work with him on the Commonwealth Games and other projects over the last few years. The West Midlands will forever be in his debt.”
Edgbaston Labour MP Preet Gill told the BBC: “Results show the writing is on the wall for Rishi Sunak. The mood in the country is one of change. We need to have a General Election to give people the option to have that choice.”