British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is contemplating his political future after Andy Burnham’s commanding victory in the parliament elections sparked increasing calls from ministers within the Labour Party for Starmer to step down. Facing some of the lowest approval ratings for a modern British leader, sources suggest he may decide as early as Monday whether to resign or challenge Burnham in a leadership race.
Burnham’s impressive win for a parliamentary seat in northwest England on Friday has intensified the pressure on Starmer, with numerous lawmakers and officials privately urging him to outline a timeline for his departure, clearing the path for the former Mayor of Greater Manchester. An insider indicated that Starmer is spending the weekend reflecting on his position and discussing it with family, with an upcoming conversation with Burnham expected to provide clarity.
A source close to the situation mentioned, “Keir tends to take time to think things through.” Compounding the situation, former U.S. President Donald Trump posted on his Truth Social platform that “Keir Starmer will resign as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom,” criticizing his record on immigration and North Sea oil production.
Starmer’s declining popularity was starkly displayed in Labour’s significant losses in local elections last May, and internal polls suggest Burnham would win a leadership contest. If Burnham were to become the leader, he would be Britain’s seventh prime minister in just a decade.
Reports from Sky News indicate that Foreign Minister Yvette Cooper privately urged Starmer to resign during a weekend conversation. Her spokesperson did not immediately comment. The widespread coalescence of support for a leadership change has led many to believe Starmer’s resignation is merely a matter of timing.
Just days earlier, Starmer publicly stated he would participate in any formal Labour leadership race to replace him. While his team argues that his 2024 national election victory grants him a mandate until 2029, some within his administration acknowledge he is contemplating the political challenges he faces.
Business Minister Peter Kyle spoke with Starmer last Friday, describing him as questioning what the country expects from him and acknowledging the difficult circumstances surrounding his leadership. Kyle emphasized that although political hurdles remain, nothing about the future is predetermined.
The situation remains fluid. Burnham’s landslide win over Reform UK in Makerfield has further amplified calls for a transition, with his campaign team hopeful that Starmer will consider an orderly handover of power. As of now, there has been no indication that the two have spoken directly.
Former minister Jess Phillips, who supports fellow Labour figure Wes Streeting, said, “It feels like we’ve reached the end of the road,” emphasizing that Starmer’s departure, if it occurs, should be dignified.