Independent MP and former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn is more popular with young voters than UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, according to a new poll that raises questions over Labour’s decision to lower the voting age.

A YouGov survey conducted just as Corbyn launched a new political party alongside former Labour MP Zarah Sultana shows the former Labour leader holding a significant lead over Starmer among 18 to 24-year-olds. Corbyn also enjoys a +18 approval rating among young voters compared to -30 for Starmer in the same age group.

The findings come on the heels of the government's announcement that 16- and 17-year-olds will be enfranchised, expanding the voter base by roughly 1.6 million people ahead of the next general election. While critics on the right allege the reform is an attempt by Labour to solidify support, the new polling suggests the move may deepen internal divisions and potentially fragment the progressive vote, particularly if younger voters continue to favour Corbyn.

Starmer, Corbyn neck-and-neck nationally

Among the wider electorate, Corbyn and Starmer have nearly identical approval ratings, -39 and -40, respectively. Despite the generational gap in support, both leaders struggle with public perception. Starmer’s numbers have been hit especially hard following a £5bn welfare policy U-turn, with his overall approval rating plummeting to -43, according to additional polling this month.

The survey also highlights growing dissatisfaction with Starmer’s leadership from across the political spectrum. One year into office, 70% of respondents believe the Labour government is at least as disordered as the previous Conservative administration, with a third saying it is even more chaotic.

Corbyn and Sultana introduced earlier in the month what they described as a “new kind of political party," though the movement remains unnamed. Corbyn said that over 200,000 people have already registered their interest in the initiative.

Corbyn, who was suspended from Labour in 2020 under Keir Starmer’s leadership, has increasingly positioned himself as a voice for disenfranchised voters on the left. He has consistently advocated for anti-poverty measures, wealth redistribution, and a foreign policy rooted in peace and international solidarity, particularly with Palestine.

The possible emergence of a new political movement, analysts say, could reshape the dynamics of the upcoming election.

A Corbyn-led initiative with grassroots support might fragment the left-of-center vote, potentially drawing votes away from Labour as Starmer continues to reposition the party closer to the political center.

Read more: Keir Starmer faces internal revolt over welfare reform vote