LONDON (AP) — Andy Burnham, Britain's newest lawmaker and a strong contender for the leadership of the Labour Party, is preparing for a potential leadership contest following the announcement of Prime Minister Keir Starmer's resignation. Starmer, who has faced ongoing challenges during his two years in office, revealed he will step down due to dwindling support from both the party and the public.
Burnham, who has served as the mayor of Greater Manchester since 2017, recently won a special election for a parliamentary seat that will bolster his position as the frontrunner to replace Starmer. His ambition to challenge for the leadership is now further solidified by the support of former Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who was once perceived as a primary rival.
In Britain's parliamentary system, governing parties can change leaders without a national election, meaning that Burnham could potentially become prime minister very quickly. Nominations for the Labour leadership are set to open on July 9 and close a week later, with Burnham likely to assume the role by July 17 if he is unopposed. If a contest occurs, a new leader should be in place by September 1, when Parliament reconvenes after its summer break.
While Burnham's charisma and interpersonal skills have garnered hope from many Labour members, his policy positions remain largely unknown. This uncertainty has sparked discussions among Labour lawmakers, some of whom are advocating for a leadership contest to ensure his plans undergo thorough public debate and scrutiny. Burnham is expected to address his economic vision in a speech next week, but until then, the details remain unclear.
In the backdrop of these developments, former Armed Forces Minister Al Carns has hinted at a potential leadership bid, although he has not committed to running at this time. Other potential candidates include Darren Jones, a senior Cabinet minister and ally of the former prime minister, but he has yet to express any intention to enter the race. Candidates must secure the backing of at least 81 Labour lawmakers, which constitutes a fifth of the parliamentary party, to qualify for the contest.
Some within the party express concern that a leadership contest might only exacerbate existing internal divisions and extend a period of political uncertainty. Cabinet Office Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds has emphasized the need for a "swift and orderly" transition as the party reflects on its future direction.
Starmer's resignation comes on the heels of increased pressure and introspection about his leadership. He admitted that the Labour Party no longer feels he is the best candidate to lead them into the next general election. His departure marks the ongoing turmoil within British politics, as he becomes the sixth prime minister in a decade to resign amid challenges that have influenced public sentiment and party dynamics.
Starmer's tenure began with great promise, including a landslide victory in July 2024. However, his record has since been marred by falling popularity, criticized government performance, and a series of missteps that have hindered his ability to deliver economic growth and address pressing issues such as public services and the cost of living. The Labour Party is also currently coping with competition from emergent political forces, including the Green Party and the Reform UK party, led by Nigel Farage, both of which are drawing liberal voters away from Labour.
