### Rayner Defends Labour's Role in Kamala Harris Campaign Amid Trump Complaint

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has come to the defense of Labour regarding its staff members volunteering for Kamala Harris's presidential campaign. Speaking in the House of Commons, Rayner emphasized that individuals often participate in political campaigns on their own time, a practice seen across various political parties. Her comments come in response to accusations from Donald Trump's campaign, which alleges that Labour broke US election rules on foreign interference.

During Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs), Rayner clarified that no laws were breached and that the campaigners involved were indeed volunteers. These allegations arose from a now-deleted social media post by Sofia Patel, Labour’s head of operations, stating that around 100 current and former party staff members were heading to America before polling day, with provisions made for accommodations.

The Federal Election Commission allows foreign nationals to volunteer in US political campaigns as long as they are not compensated. Labour Party insiders maintain that no rules have been violated but expressed concern over potential political fallout if Trump wins the election on November 5.

Rayner's defense was prompted by Stephen Flynn, leader of the SNP at Westminster, who had invited her to commend the Labour staff members traveling to the US to campaign against Trump. Responding, Rayner reiterated that such activities are common and executed on personal time and expense.

Further details emerged about expenses and affiliations. Labour confirmed meeting the costs for Morgan McSweeney, Sir Keir Starmer's chief of staff, while Matthew Doyle, Downing Street's director of communications, was hosted by the Progressive Policy Institute, a US think tank. Labour officials underscored that attending each Democratic convention is standard practice and denied any active advisory role for Harris's campaign.

Sir Keir Starmer briefly addressed the controversy while en route to Samoa for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, stating that Labour had a long tradition of volunteering in international elections and dismissing concerns about his relationship with Trump, whom he recently dined with in New York.

Despite withdrawing from a "Come on Kamala" online event due to criticism, Scotland Office Minister Kirty McNeil emphasized her participation was in a personal capacity and merely for election analysis. Meanwhile, Defence Secretary John Healey suggested Trump’s campaign was stirring controversy ahead of the election.

In contrast, Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK and Trump supporter, argued that the LinkedIn post in question potentially breached US election laws, noting the explicit offer of free accommodation without mentioning personal expense commitments.