Andy Burnham, a former Cabinet minister and the current mayor of Greater Manchester, is preparing for a Labour Party leadership contest that could see him become the United Kingdom's next prime minister within weeks. Keir Starmer announced Monday that he would step down in the coming weeks after two years in office marked by what the Associated Press described as missteps and judgment errors that diminished his standing.
Burnham, who secured a parliamentary seat last week with the stated intention of challenging Starmer, received a significant boost when former Health Secretary Wes Streeting, considered his primary rival, declared his support. Nominations for the leadership are set to open on July 9 and close a week later. If Burnham remains the only contender, he could assume the role of prime minister by July 17. In the event of a contest, a winner is expected to be in place by September 1, when Parliament reconvenes after its summer break.
The U.K.'s parliamentary system allows governing parties to change leaders, and consequently prime ministers, without a general election. The next national election is not mandated until 2029.
"Manchesterism" on a National Scale
Burnham, who has served as the mayor of Greater Manchester since 2017, is credited with overseeing a period of significant regeneration in the northern English city. He has pledged to replicate this model of "Manchesterism" across the nation. Many within the Labour Party believe Burnham's charisma and public engagement skills could resonate more effectively with voters than Starmer's more reserved, managerial approach.
However, questions remain about the specifics of Burnham's policies and their untested nature on a national level. Some Labour lawmakers have expressed a desire for a formal contest to allow for public debate and scrutiny of potential candidates.
Burnham is expected to outline some of his economic proposals in a speech next week. Former Armed Forces Minister Al Carns has suggested he might run for leadership, though he has not made a definitive decision. Darren Jones, a senior Cabinet minister and Starmer ally, has also been mentioned as a potential candidate, though he has yet to comment.
To enter the leadership race, potential candidates must secure the backing of at least 81 Labour lawmakers, equivalent to one-fifth of the parliamentary party. Many within the party worry that a leadership contest could exacerbate internal divisions and prolong a period of political uncertainty.
Transition and Political Landscape
Starmer informed his Cabinet on Tuesday of his intention to facilitate an "orderly transition" to his successor, emphasizing his desire for the new leader to succeed. His office stated that Starmer wishes to maintain normal operations during this period, though he is restricted from making new major policy announcements or spending commitments.
Starmer's resignation follows weeks of mounting pressure, as he acknowledged that the Labour Party no longer believes he is the best person to lead them into the next general election. His departure makes him the sixth prime minister in a decade to announce their exit. This comes as the UK observes the tenth anniversary of the Brexit vote, a decision that continues to impact the country's economy and political landscape.
Starmer's leadership has been challenged by his administration's struggle to deliver on promises of economic growth, improve public services, and address the cost of living crisis. His tenure was also affected by controversial decisions, such as appointing Peter Mandelson to a diplomatic role.
Labour currently faces challenges from the Green Party, which has been attracting liberal voters, and the Reform UK party, led by Nigel Farage, which has shown strength in national opinion polls. Starmer had previously led Labour to a significant electoral victory in July 2024, but both his and the party's popularity have declined since then.