Thread by @MikeHolden42

I have a real problem with tomorrow's Local Elections. I'm a Labour member and supporter, but also very strongly against Brexit. As, it seems, are the significant majority of Labour voters 1/

Labour have moved towards a softening of Brexit but all credible analysis shows *any* Brexit will hurt the economy badly, and this will disproportionately affect the poor in or out of work. It seems clear to me that Labour should oppose Brexit unreservedly 2/

and their tactical ambiguity shown by Labour was a reasonable tactic months ago, but not now. I have to argue with Leavers who claim, with justification, that "85% of voters sided with a Brexit supporting party". Which of course is nonsense, but 3/

Labour were terrified of right-wing media headlines. So the *only* chance we have right now to send a message to Labour (and anti-Brexit Tories) is to vote for any party in the local elections that oppose Brexit 4/

This way, a dramatic falloff in support for Labour will serve two purposes - it will send the message to the party that many of us do, in fact, oppose Brexit, and will strengthen the hand of those in Labour who could or would speak out. 5/

This will be a real shame for local councillors who I know are far more focussed on the local issues than national politics or Brexit, but sadly for them it's the only chance we have.
It also means the Tories, even with a similar huge hit to their vote, will keep councils 6/

they could otherwise lose, and Lib Dems are likely to make strong gains despite the party's previous opportunism in coalition (but see earlier re: local vs national politics).
So I'm in the tragic position of wanting MY party to do badly tomorrow. Why should I have to?
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(addendum) - I know well that if Labour came out fully against Brexit they'd lose many votes right now - but as the crisis unfolds those who now support Brexit will turn against politicians who provided it, and towards those who oppose it.
ends/