It is a constant surprise to me that politicians almost never ask themselves what their opponents do not want them to do. I have been advising, observing and critiquing politicians for 25 years now, and it remains remarkably rare, particularly for opposition politicians, to lift up their heads before they create strategy or policy. More often than not, decisions are made based on what they think will work with ‘their people’, appealing to the core vote, rather than making a fist of trying to grow it.

The opportunity to lift the head and think about what would give its opponent a problem now exists for the Labour party in Scotland. Despite its lowly position in a distant joint-second place in the Scottish Parliament, Labour remains the realistic alternative to the SNP government.

Reform appears to have made the decision to be Nigel Farage’s parrot in Scotland, which places above them a very low and impenetrable ceiling. The Greens’ message is increasingly a left-wing version of the government’s, and there is no particular evidence that there are enough voters over there to cause any trouble. The Tories are dead from the neck up. And, although the Liberal Democrats have the potential to be the most interesting and fastest-growing force, their base is low enough that Labour can still consider itself to be in pole position.

C'mon, John - cut tax and let Scotland flourish - or will the SNP not let you?

This SNP policy has been a disaster for Scotland - so why is Burnham considering it?

Swinney, please don't ask Burnham for another referendum. It's boring

I travelled to America during Trump's second term and this is what I think

So, all eyes........

© Herald Scotland