In a landmark move, the United Kingdom is expected to elect its first Labour prime minister in 14 years, according to exit polls from the July 4 elections. Keir Starmer, a 61-year-old human rights lawyer-turned-politician, is anticipated to take over the country's top job from Rishi Sunak, marking a significant shift in leadership.

Starmer's political journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Entering U.K. parliament less than a decade ago, he has quickly risen through the ranks and captured the attention of the British public. Despite his relatively short tenure in politics, Starmer has positioned himself as the change candidate, promising a "decade of national renewal" to address the years of spending cuts and falling living standards under the Conservative government.

Born in London in 1962, Starmer comes from humble beginnings. His father worked as a toolmaker, while his mother dedicated her life to nursing. These modest roots have resonated with voters, and Starmer often emphasizes his gratitude for the National Health Service (NHS), inspired by his mother's lifelong battle with severe illness.

Starmer's academic achievements set him on a path towards success. After becoming the first in his family to attend university, he studied law at the University of Leeds and pursued postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford. His legal career flourished as he took on high-profile cases, including against major corporations such as Shell and McDonald's, as well as Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher's mine closures.

Recognized for his contributions to criminal justice, Starmer was knighted in 2014 and went on to serve as the director of public prosecutions, leading the U.K.'s Crown Prosecution Service. Following his election to Parliament in 2015, he held positions as immigration minister and Brexit minister for the opposition.

In 2020, amid the resignation of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, Starmer assumed the role of party leader and embarked on a mission to revitalize the party. His manifesto for the 2024 election outlines ambitious plans to create a publicly owned energy company, reduce NHS waiting times, build new homes, and renationalize rail services. Notably, Starmer seeks to strike a balance between economic growth and social justice, courting traditionally right-leaning voters with a focus on wealth creation.

However, critics have raised questions about Starmer's establishment background and lack of charisma compared to other politicians. Concerns have also been voiced over his association with Corbyn's administration, which faced allegations of antisemitism within Labour. Starmer ultimately suspended Corbyn from the party, but some feel that he betrayed the left by embracing business leaders and abandoning promises such as abolishing university fees.

Despite these challenges, Starmer's supporters see him as a neutral figure of stability amidst a period of significant political upheaval. After experiencing three different Conservative prime ministers in 2022 alone, many Britons are eager for change and view Starmer as the leader who can deliver positive transformation.

As the nation eagerly awaits the final election results, Keir Starmer stands on the precipice of becoming the U.K.'s first Labour prime minister in over a decade, potentially bringing a fresh approach to governance and addressing the pressing issues facing the country.

Note: This news article has been written based on the information provided and does not include any additional or speculative content.