The British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, announced his resignation on Monday. He stepped down after pressure from his own party following mistakes that damaged his popularity. Starmer won a landslide electoral victory two years ago with promises of stable leadership and economic growth.
He will serve as interim Prime Minister until the Labour Party elects a new leader. Expectations are high for the former Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, to take the role. Burnham confirmed his candidacy via social media. Wes Streeting, former Health Secretary and a potential rival, announced his support for Burnham.
Burnham’s victory in a recent parliamentary by-election prompted Starmer’s decision. Returning to Westminster after nearly a decade, Burnham is set to be sworn in as an MP on Monday. Only MPs can run for party leadership. Streeting’s support increases the likelihood of Burnham’s selection without a leadership contest.
Starmer is the sixth Prime Minister in a decade to announce a premature departure from 10 Downing Street. His announcement comes just before the UK’s ten-year anniversary of voting to leave the European Union, a decision still impacting the economy and politics.
Despite initial resistance, Starmer gave in to pressure for a new leader to attempt to revive the government’s declining fortunes. He led the Labour Party to a major electoral victory in July 2024, but both his and the party’s popularity have dwindled since.
Standing outside his official residence, 10 Downing St, where he gave his first speech as Prime Minister, Starmer spoke emotionally during his brief statement. “The question my party asks is whether I’m the best positioned to lead us into the next general elections,” he said, acknowledging his party’s response.
Starmer informed King Charles III of his decision and spent time reflecting after Burnham’s by-election victory. It is uncertain if Burnham will face a challenge or be selected unopposed. Nominations for the leadership contest will open on July 9, with a new leader in place by Parliament’s return on September 1. If Burnham stands unchallenged, the transition may occur by mid-July.
Starmer struggled to fulfill campaign promises, facing issues in delivering economic growth and public service improvements. His appointment of Peter Mandelson as UK ambassador to the US was controversial due to Mandelson’s associations with scandal.
The Labour Party is losing liberal voters to the Green Party and facing rising competition from Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage. US President Donald Trump criticized Starmer on social media, linking his potential resignation to immigration and renewable energy issues.
Amid domestic challenges, Starmer received international praise for mobilizing European support for Ukraine and addressing economic disruptions from the Iran conflict. An upcoming NATO summit could be his last international event as UK leader.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised Starmer’s international contributions, stating, “The security of Europe and Ukraine is stronger thanks to you.” Despite some Labour lawmakers supporting Burnham, others feel Starmer was unfairly treated, highlighted by London MP Neil Coyle’s criticisms on social media.