McSweeney Steps Down as Starmer’s Chief of Staff Amid Epstein Controversy

Resignation of Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney

Morgan McSweeney, the chief of staff for British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, has stepped down following the appointment of Sir Peter Mandelson, who has connections to Jeffrey Epstein, as the ambassador to the United States.

On Sunday, McSweeney accepted “full responsibility” for recommending Mandelson for the prestigious role last year. This came despite the awareness within Downing Street, including Starmer, of Mandelson’s ongoing ties to Epstein, even after Epstein’s conviction for child prostitution.

In a statement, McSweeney expressed regret, saying, “The decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was the wrong one. He undermined confidence in our party, our country, and politics itself.” He added, “When asked, I advised the Prime Minister to make that appointment and I take full responsibility for that advice.”

He mentioned that this was not an easy choice and emphasized his commitment to supporting a government aimed at improving the lives of ordinary people. He noted, “Only a Labor government can do that.” While he reflected on his achievements with a sense of pride, he also felt a bittersweet sense of regret, especially thinking of the women and girls impacted by Epstein, whose stories were overlooked for too long.

McSweeney highlighted the need for a reevaluation of the vetting process that led to Mandelson’s appointment, acknowledging that he did not oversee it himself.

His resignation comes at a time when there is significant speculation regarding Starmer’s future as the leader of the Labor Party, especially as he faces potential challenges amid declining poll numbers linked to his handling of economic issues and immigration.

Starmer has warned that if he loses his position, it could lead to a rise of Nigel Farage’s British Reform Party, which has gained popularity amid public discontent with the current Labor government.

With McSweeney’s departure, Starmer finds himself with diminished support in Downing Street. Key individuals like former aide Angela Reiner and current aide David Lammy have openly stated they advised against Mandelson’s appointment.

McSweeney was instrumental in Starmer’s ascent to leadership last year, largely orchestrating the removal of Jeremy Corbyn and shifting the party back to the New Labor principles established by Tony Blair.

His efforts to undermine Corbyn involved a censorship campaign by the ‘think tank’ Labor Together, which also targeted conservative news outlets in the U.S.

Imran Ahmed, associated with McSweeney, was among those sanctioned by the Trump administration for allegedly driving a coordinated effort to suppress opposing viewpoints on American platforms.