Alex Massie Alex Massie

Gordon Brown is a Rescue Donkey

Brother Liddle asks “Why is it unravelling for Dave?” and, while this may be a mild exaggeration, it’s true that, in as much as he can ever look jaunty, there’s a spring in Gordon’s step right now. Perhaps, Labourites dare to dream, the worst is over? Maybe. One poll showing the Tory lead cut to just six points is a pretty shoogly nail upon which to hang your hopes. Nevertheless, the story of the day is this alleged mini-revival. In the end it may be no more than a dead cat bounce, but, just for a moment, let’s assume it’s not. So, how to explain it?

Firstly, Labour’s core vote may be firming up. Some waverers have returned to the comfort of the fold. Secondly, this mini-revival, if it even exists, is a proof of Gordon’s predicament, not proof that the worst is past. People have moved beyond anger and into pity. There is such a thing as a Sympathy Vote and we may be seeing it here.

That’s why, as Danny Finkelstein says, the Tories new “Jedward” poster is a mistake. It’s entirely negative, not terribly funny and, worst of all, snide and superior. And that’s the third reason why there may be a tiny Labour revival: Tory complacency and the assumption that the election is in the bag and its just a matter of going through the motions between now and election day when, after 13 long years, the British people will (at last!) wake up and remember that the Tory party is the natural party of government and all will be restored and renewed and well with the world.

Not so fast say the people! We ain’t had our say yet. And, while, sure, there aren’t too many compelling arguments for voting Labour one of the better ones is that the Tories (or their supporters in the media) seem to be taking the electorate for granted.

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