In a historic first, 10 Downing Street will now be home to a practicing Jewish family. Keir Starmer, sworn in as the United Kingdom's new Prime Minister after Labour's landslide victory, is married to Victoria Alexander Starmer, who is Jewish. While Starmer himself is not Jewish, the couple is raising their children in the faith.
Key points about the new Prime Minister and his family:
1. Starmer has pledged to continue the family's tradition of Friday night Shabbat dinners at 10 Downing Street.
2. The Starmers belong to the Liberal Jewish Synagogue in London, known for its inclusive and egalitarian approach.
3. Victoria Starmer, a former solicitor now working for the National Health Service, maintains a low public profile.
4. Starmer has been vocal about fighting antisemitism, criticizing his predecessor Jeremy Corbyn's handling of the issue within the Labour Party.
5. On Israel, Starmer has expressed "steadfast" support while also calling for a ceasefire and the release of hostages in the ongoing conflict.
6. Pre-election polls showed increased Jewish support for Labour under Starmer's leadership compared to previous years.
7. The family has faced intimidation from pro-Palestinian protesters due to Starmer's stance on Israel.
While Benjamin Disraeli, a 19th-century Prime Minister, had Jewish heritage, he converted to Christianity as a child. This makes the Starmers the first practicing Jewish family to reside at 10 Downing Street.
Starmer's commitment to addressing antisemitism and his balanced approach to Middle East issues have been central to his political platform. As he takes office, many will be watching how these personal and political aspects of his life influence his leadership of the United Kingdom.
