Sadiq Khan, the center-left mayor of London, won his third term in office by a comfortable margin, delivering a blow to the Conservative Party ahead of a potential general election. Khan, a member of the Labour Party, first became mayor in 2016 and is now the first politician to win three consecutive terms in the role. Despite some concerns about a tight race, Khan ultimately secured over one million votes, with his opponent Susan Hall falling short with around 32 percent of the total. Khan faced negativity during his campaign but focused on facts, hope, and unity in his acceptance speech.
The electoral system for London’s mayor has changed since Khan’s last re-election in 2021, as the government introduced a new requirement for voters to produce photo ID. Some feared this might deter poorer and younger voters who tend to support Labour. Khan had to convince Londoners that he was improving their lives despite limited powers and a squeeze on living standards. He campaigned on promises of free school meals, a freeze on travel fares, and more housing construction. Khan’s opponent, Hall, focused on reducing the area covered by the Ultra Low Emission Zone, targeting Khan’s record on fighting crime, and making controversial statements about public safety and Khan’s Muslim identity.
Conservative Party normally polls better in suburban areas of outer London, where more households own cars, compared to inner London which is a stronghold of the Labour Party. The expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone by Khan faced backlash from owners of older vehicles, prompting a rethink on environmental policies. Khan’s opponent had highlighted crime issues in London, using misleading images in attack ads and controversial comments about relocating events and criticizing Khan’s religion. Notably, a lawmaker from the Conservative Party made anti-Muslim remarks about Khan, leading to his suspension from the party.
Former President Donald Trump has been a vocal critic of Khan since 2016, particularly on issues such as immigration and terrorism. Trump accused Khan of being “nasty” and a “disaster” in reference to attacks in London, calling for his replacement. However, Trump’s unpopularity in Britain likely did not damage Khan’s re-election bid. Despite facing criticism and attacks from various sources, Khan’s strong lead in opinion polls and his focus on improving the lives of Londoners helped secure his third term as mayor. He will continue to lead London as it navigates challenges related to living standards, environmental policies, and public safety.
