Carry on vaping, Angela Rayner: voters might just like you for it
Angela Rayner quitting vaping may be a strategic move for her leadership bid, but the author argues voters might actually prefer her authenticity.Summary
Angela Rayner, the bookmakers' favourite to succeed Keir Starmer, has reportedly given up vaping, a habit she previously enjoyed publicly. The author suggests this decision is likely a calculated move to project the image of a disciplined leader, as public figures are often expected to set high personal standards. However, the article argues that this expectation is unrealistic and stressful, noting that Boris Johnson's chaotic style contrasted with Keir Starmer's performative probity. Instead, the author proposes that a prime minister openly displaying a minor human failing like vaping could signal a refreshing ordinariness and modernise respectability. Ultimately, the author questions whether Rayner's decision is a genuine sacrifice or a strategic move by allies like Steve Reed to undermine her candidacy.
(Source：Theguardiantheguardian)
