British Elections Begin with Expectations of Labour Victory

British voters began selecting a new government today, Thursday, after polling stations opened at 7 AM for the parliamentary elections, which are widely expected to bring the opposition Labour Party to power. Amid economic recession, increasing distrust in government institutions, and the unraveling of social cohesion, divided voters are passing judgment on the Conservative Party led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who has been in power since 2010. The Labour Party, led by Keir Starmer, has shown steady and significant progress in opinion polls for several months, but Labour leaders have warned against taking the election outcome for granted, fearing that their supporters may stay home. Starmer urged voters to "vote against what he called the 'chaos of the Conservatives.' It is time for change." For his part, Sunak has sought to rally his supporters, stating on Sunday that he still believes the Conservatives can win and defend their record on the economy.