How could Trump win? I have no doubt that this question will be analysed for years to come.

Given his criminal charges, the storming of the Capitol on January 6 four years ago and so much more, many people had hoped he would lose the US Presidential election this year.

Donald Trump’s victory must act as a warning for all politicians who do not share his values.

Most American voters did not feel that their country was on the right track or that they were better off than four years ago. In such circumstances, Donald Trump was able to win enough support to regain the Presidency.

Here in the UK, politicians must never lose sight of the fact that our job is to improve the lives of the people we serve.

Before the recent budget, I conducted a poll asking local residents what one thing they would like to see included. Hundreds of people took part in this and 64 per cent said their top priority was government funding to deliver the redevelopment of Watford General Hospital.

It was incredibly disappointing that the Government gave no such commitment. Instead, we were told that the review into this project will report next year.

We have all endured some difficult years – the credit crunch, the division of Brexit and the cost-of-living crisis. My sense is that the British public are desperate for tangible improvements, such as investment in the NHS, homes that are more affordable and town centres that are safe and vibrant.

It is essential that all politicians, both local and national, deliver improvements people can see. If we don’t, opportunists offering quick fixes or blaming our problems on others, will gain more support.

  • Peter Taylor is the elected mayor of Watford