Politics can be brutal, and today’s session in the House of Commons proved just how emotionally taxing it can be—even for those at the top.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves found herself in the middle of a political storm during Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs), and it showed.
With tensions already high following Labour’s dramatic U-turn on welfare reforms, all eyes were on her—and some noticed she couldn’t quite hold back the tears.
Welfare U-Turn Casts Shadow Over Reeves
The pressure has been mounting on Reeves since the government was forced into a major backtrack on its proposed welfare cuts.
Facing rebellion from within Labour ranks, Prime Minister Keir Starmer ultimately surrendered key parts of the policy.
The result? Embarrassment for the leadership team—and mounting speculation about Reeves’ future.
As Starmer faced off against Tory leader Kemi Badenoch in the Commons, Reeves sat beside him, clearly affected by the drama playing out.
Her visible distress became one of the standout moments of the day.
Reeves Tries to Keep Composure as Questions Heat Up
The first hints of emotion appeared around 11:59 a.m., when Reeves took her seat on the Labour front bench.
Observers noted her eyes looked puffy, and an MP behind her reached out—perhaps checking in on how she was doing.
For a brief moment, things seemed normal.
She exchanged a smile and chatted with Starmer. But it didn’t last.
A Public Tear During Heated PMQs
At 12:12 p.m., Badenoch zeroed in, pointing out that the Chancellor “looked absolutely miserable.”
A minute later, a tear was seen rolling down Reeves’ cheek.
Then came the moment that really stung: when Starmer was asked if Reeves would still be Chancellor by the next general election, he avoided giving a clear answer.
Emotions Overflow Before Quiet Exit
As the session continued, Reeves’ emotions got the best of her.
Around 12:31 p.m., her bottom lip trembled, and more tears began to stream down both cheeks.
She sat quietly as the Prime Minister responded to a question from Glasgow North MP Martin Rhodes.
Just six minutes later, at 12:37 p.m., Reeves quietly slipped out of the chamber once PMQs concluded.
Downing Street Tries to Shut Down Rumours
In the aftermath, questions naturally began swirling: Was Reeves crying because of pressure from the policy fallout? Was her job in jeopardy?
A spokesperson for the Chancellor quickly shut down speculation, saying her emotional display was a “personal matter” and insisting, “we are not going to get into it.”
Meanwhile, Downing Street doubled down on their support, stating firmly that Reeves has Starmer’s “full backing.”
The Prime Minister’s press secretary was even more clear: “The Chancellor is going nowhere.”
What’s Next for Reeves?
Despite the strong statements from No. 10, it’s clear the welfare U-turn has rattled the leadership and left Labour exposed.
With Starmer facing criticism for how the policy collapse was handled and Reeves taking the brunt of public scrutiny, the road ahead will be anything but smooth.
Still, for now, Rachel Reeves remains Chancellor—and it seems the government is trying to draw a line under a very public and very emotional day in Westminst