MYSTERIOUS: 39 - What They Never Told You

English local elections 2026: a story of a new kind of politics

Every election is a storytelling contest, with campaigning parties competing to frame the plot. This year’s local elections, the largest test of voters’ mood since the 2024 general election, have been dominated by two master-narratives.

The Conversation · May 8

Water flows to parched NSW wetlands could be turned back on within weeks as drought fears loom

Water minister Rose Jackson calls drying in Gwydir region ‘devastating’ as bill passes upper house

The Guardian - AU · May 8

Votes being counted in crucial elections for Sir Keir Starmer’s premiership

Polling guru Lord Robert Hayward has suggested Labour could lose some 1,850 councillors in England.

Evening Standard · May 7

London local elections 2026: How could Green Party policy impact the capital?

Zack Polanski’s policies will determine how local councils across the capital choose to control their borough

Evening Standard · May 7

Starmer’s failure to demonstrate strong values ‘driving away progressive voters’

Report using research from senior Blair and Clinton pollster comes as Labour braces for dismal election results

The Guardian - UK · May 7

Watch: potholes or Europe? Decoding Britain’s local elections

Millions of voters in Britain are heading to the polls in local elections today, and while Europe has barely featured in the campaigns, your reporter wonders if this vote matters for the EU?

Euronews · May 7

Keir Starmer Braces For Historic Local Election Losses As Leadership Challenge Looms Following Poll Collapse

As the UK votes, Keir Starmer faces a defining day, with polls suggesting Labour Party could suffer major losses.

International Business Times UK · May 7

Hackney Council election: Who should I vote for?

Residents across Hackney are voting in two elections on Thursday, May 7

Evening Standard · May 7

Keir Starmer ‘to unveil plans for closer ties to EU’ to stave off leadership challenge

The prime minister is reportedly planning to deliver a speech in the days after the results, which will include a commitment to closer ties with the EU

The Independent UK · May 7

Major test for Labour as polls open in English, Scottish and Welsh elections

Local, mayoral and parliamentary contests could upend political landscape as Reform, Greens and Lib Dems surge

The Guardian - UK · May 7