Keir Starmer Resigns Amid Labour Party Rebellion
Jun. 22, 2026, 8:35 AM UTC
The United Kingdom’s Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, announced his resignation on Monday. Faced with a revolt from his own MPs, Starmer’s departure opens the door for Andy Burnham, who is poised to challenge and potentially succeed him. The impending change signifies the seventh leadership shift in the UK within a decade.
Keir Starmer, addressing the media outside No. 10 Downing Street, ended weeks of uncertainty by confirming his resignation. The likely successor, Burnham, is a prominent figure within the Labour Party. As the mayor of Greater Manchester, Burnham has expressed intentions to challenge Starmer’s leadership.
LONDON — British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced Monday that he will resign, after facing an uprising within his center-left Labour Party.
Starmer’s political journey took a steep decline despite a strong electoral victory in 2024. His administration has faced challenges including scandals and unpopular policy decisions. In May, his leadership faced criticism following a poor performance in local and regional elections. Nigel Farage’s Reform UK capitalized on the situation, making significant strides against Labour.
Burnham, known as the “King of the North” due to his advocacy for northern England, recently won a special election, securing his position in Parliament. His victory against Reform UK has bolstered his chances to lead Labour.
“This now is the change moment,” Burnham stated after his election win.
Amid increasing discontent within Labour, Starmer lost two key Cabinet ministers. Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigned, criticizing Starmer’s indecisiveness, and Defense Secretary John Healey left over military funding disagreements. Starmer’s decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as U.S. ambassador led to political fallout, exacerbated by Mandelson’s links to Jeffrey Epstein.
Starmer’s economic policies also faced scrutiny. Global issues, Brexit, and fiscal discipline promises limited his ability to enact reforms. Flagship projects like net-zero emissions and digital ID cards saw reduced ambitions.
Political expert Andrew Barclay remarked, “The economic legacy inherited by the Labour government was tricky, but it needn’t have been as bad.”
Tim Bale suggested Starmer’s shift to centrist policies disappointed progressives, causing voter alienation. While excelling internationally, Starmer’s domestic challenges consistently overshadowed his leadership.
The leadership contest requires candidates to secure backing from 20% of Labour MPs. Burnham is currently favored, potentially streamlining the selection process.
Recent events, including Burnham’s win in Makerfield, effectively sealed Starmer’s decision to resign. Political analysts believe Burnham’s success against Reform UK showcases his communication skills and leadership capabilities.
This upcoming leadership change follows years of political volatility dating back to the Brexit referendum.