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Wales Online
Wales Online
National
Richard Youle

Council elections interview: Leader of Swansea Labour on his unusual rise to power and focus on building up the city

He is a DVLA project manager and former DJ credited by many for raising Swansea’s profile and driving through regeneration schemes which would have seemed far-fetched a few years ago. Supported by a cabinet who often use the words “vision”, “leadership” and “ambition” when referring to him, Rob Stewart has certainly been leaving his mark since becoming council leader in 2014.

Confidence isn’t a problem, he comes across as being on top of the details, presents well, and it’s very rare to see him flustered. At times it feels he counter-punches too strongly when criticised by political opponents - and seldom is an opportunity to bash the Tories wasted - but he will say that politics always has an element of theatre.

And it emerges that Mr Stewart, like other elected representatives, has received some very unpleasant abuse. Mr Stewart is one of many prospective Swansea councillors standing at the council elections on May 5, and he felt there was plenty of work still to do. You can get more Swansea news and other story updates by subscribing to our newsletters here.

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