“I am a fighter, not a quitter,” Peter Mandelson declared defiantly at the Hartlepool election count in 2001.
At the time, Mandelson had just won re-election as Labour MP for Hartlepool, only five months after resigning from Tony Blair’s government amid accusations of assisting an Indian billionaire in securing a British passport. Although an inquiry later cleared him of wrongdoing, it was the second resignation in his political career. Earlier, he had stepped down as trade secretary after revelations of a substantial loan from a fellow cabinet minister to buy a house.
Despite his controversial record, Mandelson’s political resilience is undeniable. Spool forward 25 years, and Lord Mandelson, as he is now known, is preparing to take up residence in the recently refurbished British embassy in Washington DC. There, he will be addressed as “His Excellency,” a long journey from his beginnings in the post-industrial north-east town of Hartlepool.
From hartlepool to Washington
This appointment marks another significant political rebound for Mandelson, who recently failed in his bid to become Chancellor of Oxford University, losing out to former Conservative leader Lord Hague. The Washington ambassadorship is a considerable consolation prize, offering a platform for the Labour peer to wield influence on a global stage.
Mandelson’s political journey began in the 1980s, during Labour’s struggles under Margaret Thatcher’s Conservative government. As campaign director, he helped steer the party away from its far-left stance under Neil Kinnock’s leadership. By 1992, he was elected as an MP and played a key role in Tony Blair’s rise to Labour leadership, working behind the scenes under the codename “Bobby.”
Dubbed the “Prince of Darkness” for his reputation as a secretive operator, Mandelson became a central figure in the New Labour project. He was admired by loyalists and reviled by many on the left for his perceived manipulations and unapologetic pragmatism.
Political and diplomatic career
In government, Mandelson served as trade secretary in Blair’s administration and business secretary under Gordon Brown. Elevated to the House of Lords, he also held a prestigious role as the European Union’s Trade Commissioner for four years.
This extensive political experience has made Mandelson a valuable asset as Britain prepares for complex global challenges, including a potential second Trump presidency. His pro-European stance and connections are expected to shape British foreign policy, navigating the delicate balance of fostering closer EU ties while managing relations with Washington.
Mandelson’s role will not be without challenges. With key issues like China, Ukraine, and NATO dominating the global agenda, his posting in Washington will demand skillful diplomacy and strategic acumen.
The Trump factor
As the UK’s ambassador to the US, Mandelson will have direct access to Donald Trump’s team and will play a pivotal role in fostering UK-US relations during a politically volatile period. Described by Downing Street as a seasoned networker, his ability to “charm and cajole” is seen as a significant advantage.
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His appointment underscores a broader trend of Blair-era figures returning to influential positions under Sir Keir Starmer’s Labour government. For instance, Jonathan Powell, Tony Blair’s former chief of staff, now serves as the UK’s national security adviser.
A controversial legacy
While Mandelson’s connections are an asset, they also come with baggage. His advisory firm, Global Counsel, has earned him substantial wealth but also placed him under scrutiny for his ties to the global elite.
In 2008, his interactions with Russian billionaire Oleg Deripaska reignited controversy. More recently, his past acquaintance with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein resurfaced, leading to public criticism. Mandelson’s spokesperson stated, “Lord Mandelson very much regrets ever having been introduced to Epstein” and emphasised that the relationship was neither professional nor business-related.
A diplomatic gambit
By appointing Mandelson, Starmer has chosen a seasoned political figure over a traditional diplomat. Mandelson’s connections, experience, and strategic mind will be key as he acts as a bridge between two leaders—Donald Trump and Rishi Sunak—whose political temperaments and priorities are vastly different.
Mandelson’s predecessor, Karen Pierce, was known as the “Trump whisperer” for her adept handling of relations with the former president’s team. Now, Mandelson will bring decades of Westminster intrigue and international connections to his new role in Washington, ready to navigate the corridors of power and diplomacy with the same tenacity that has defined his career.
