UK politics hits peak tabloid energy with 'BLAME ME' resignation drama

A Daily Mirror front page from February 9, 2026, featuring a Labour leadership crisis headline with dramatic typography. The main story reports on Keir Starmer's top aide Morgan McSweeney resigning over the Peter Mandelson US ambassador appointment controversy. The page includes multiple circular photos of political figures, a dramatic 'BLAME ME' headline in large white text, and promotional content for free chocolate treats and magazine subscriptions. Extracted text: DAILY Mirror THE HEART OF BRITAIN Monday, February 9, 2026 E2 FREE chocolate treat at TG Jones Mars Snickers Maltesers Worth £1.20 VOUCHER: PAGE 26 TV star Father Rairzeen wants to change law SEE PAGES 20&21 I don't have long... shame on all the Lords sabotaging assisted dying bill ESTHER EXCLUSIVE LABOUR LEADERSHIP CRISIS Keir Starmer's top aide quits after taking 'full responsibility' for the Mandelson debacle... but pressure still on PM BY DAVE BURKE KEIR Starmer's top aide Morgan McSweeney shouldered the blame for disgraced Peter Mandelson being made US ambassador as he sensationally quit yesterday. The move was widely credited with propelling the PM into Downing Street but had been a divisive figure among backbench MPs. He said in his resignation statement: When asked, I advised the Prime Minister to make that appointment and I take full responsibility for that. Sources said he had been replaced by Ian Bartholemew as joint chiefs of staff. But pressure remains on Mr Starmer in the fallout from the debacle, with union boss Steve Wright saying 'I think there needs to be a leadership change.' FULL STORY: PAGES 4&5 Morgan McSweeney; Keir Starmer and below left, with Mandelson BLAME ME Get your Mirror & Mirror for £29.99 a month... for 6 months SEE PAGE 24