Liberal Democrats Label Trump Victory a "Dark Day for Mankind," Urge UK to Reinforce EU Relations Amid Global Threats
In a pointed response to Donald Trump’s re-election, Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey issued a sharp warning, calling the result “a dark, dark day for people around the globe.” With the world’s largest economy and most powerful military now led by what he described as “a dangerous, destructive demagogue,” Davey called on the UK government to urgently strengthen its ties with the European Union in response to Trump’s leadership.
Sir Ed expressed grave concerns over Trump’s potential impact on global stability, citing his “undermining of the rule of law, human rights, international trade, climate action, and global security.” Davey voiced solidarity with Americans—especially women and minorities—who may feel particularly anxious about Trump’s return to power, stating that “millions of Americans” will be “deeply fearful” about the future under his leadership.
He urged the UK to prioritise closer trade and defence ties with Europe to mitigate what he described as Trump’s “damaging” policies. With a past record of trade wars, NATO disputes, and aligning with leaders like Russia’s Vladimir Putin, Davey argued that the UK should prepare for potential economic and security challenges ahead. “Fixing the UK’s broken relationship with the EU is even more urgent,” he emphasised.
However, Davey’s bold statements on international “tyranny” have stirred scrutiny, especially in light of recent controversies surrounding local Liberal Democrat MP Adam Dance. As a representative of Yeovil, Dance is facing criticism over his association with Yeovil Town Football Club’s owner, Martin Hellier, who has recently come under fire for allegations of abuse. Hellier’s self-declared hunger strike and social media use of IRA hunger striker imagery has sparked outrage locally, especially as Dance has yet to address the concerns raised about Hellier’s actions. This includes calls from the public for Hellier to be barred from laying wreaths at Yeovil’s Remembrance Sunday ceremonies.
Political analyst Bernie Caldwell weighed in, saying: "This demonstrates how out of touch the Liberal Democrats are, nationally and locally. Here in Yeovil, Adam Dance has ignored all calls regarding Martin Hellier and his behaviour, while his leader, Davey, speaks out on the global stage. For local women, this silence from Dance is concerning."
Caldwell added that while the Liberal Democrats focus on high-profile political issues, local constituents feel ignored. “Women locally should be very afraid under Dance’s watch. Today’s statement from Davey shows how hollow the Lib Dems can be, making political points on the big stage while MPs like Dance fail to address real issues here at home.”
Earlier this year, both Dance and Davey enjoyed the hospitality of Yeovil Town owner Hellier and CEO Keith Weston at Huish Park, despite allegations against Hellier being widely discussed within the community. Critics argue that the Liberal Democrats should focus on accountability and consistency in both local and national matters to uphold the values they claim to champion.