GE17: A victory for progressive politics

Little might actually change but yesterday's vote was a huge achievement for progressive politics.

GE17: A victory for progressive politics

A lot has happened in 24 hours but, in all practicality, not that much will actually change. Theresa May has refuted calls to resign and it is likely that by the end of the day she will have made a deal with the DUP - whether as a minority government, or part of a coalition, we don't know.

However, last night was an achievement for millions across the UK. An 'unelectable' leader did what no-one else has managed to do and has achieved what was considered impossible two moths ago. He delivered the Youth Vote, which turned out to be decisive in undermining the Conservatives. May called the election to increase her majority, with many commentators predicting a Tory landslide. To have run a campaign which engaged young voters, won back seats and has ultimately broken the Tory majority is nothing to scoff at - Corbyn has achieved some momentous strides for progressive politics.

There will be dark days ahead. A Tory-DUP pact will likely deliver a hard Brexit, and will likely continue policies of austerity and cuts. Hopefully, a small majority will be blocked on bills such as Fox Hunting and a repeal of Human Rights. The important thing is that with an increased number of progressive seats, the MPs we have elected can challenge the Conservatives and better represent us. But we cannot grow apathetic again. We must stay engaged, keep campaigning and promoting a more positive, inclusive and hopeful politics. And whether the next vote comes in 5 months or 5 years, we have to make sure that we build on Corbyn's success, making the Youth Vote a powerful force in politics.

Author

Ellen Orange

Ellen Orange Contributor

I am a 24 year old Marketing Officer from the North East with a passion for arts and writing. I did a BA in English Literature and an MA in Twentieth and Twenty First Century Literature at Durham University, because I love books and reading! I have experience in writing for a variety of student publications, as well as having contributed to Living North, a regional magazine and Culture magazine, a supplement to regional newspaper, The Journal. I have been part of a Young Journalists scheme writing for NewcastleGateshead's Juice Festival, a young people's arts and culture festival, and have since become a Team Juice member. As well as reading and writing, I love theatre, photography and crafts.

Recent posts by this author

View more posts by Ellen Orange

1 Comments

  • Luke Taylor

    On 12 June 2017, 11:21 Luke Taylor Contributor commented:

    The election was a weird one - everybody won something, whilst simultaneously everybody lost something. Thumbs up for the Youth Vote!

Post A Comment

You must be signed in to post a comment. Click here to sign in now

You might also like

Power Up - Science Museum

Power Up - Science Museum

by Roan Killick

Read now