Keir Starmer announced his resignation as leader of the Labour Party on Monday, June 22, 2026, after insisting he would fight to keep his job just days earlier. Reports suggest he informed King Charles III of his decision. This marks the seventh time Britain has seen a new leader in a decade. Starmer will remain in his position until the Labour Party selects a successor.
The sudden resignation followed a significant political event: Andy Burnham's victory in the Makerfield by-election on June 18. This election was specifically arranged for Burnham to return to Parliament, with lawmaker Josh Simons giving up his seat. This unusual move, the first of its kind since 1965, allowed Burnham to re-enter the legislature.
Burnham, the 56-year-old Mayor of Greater Manchester, known for revitalizing industrial areas, took his seat in Parliament on the same day Starmer resigned and immediately declared his intention to run for party leader. Starmer's decision came after his cabinet indicated they did not believe he was the best person to lead the party into the next general election.
Although Starmer's authority collapsed quickly, underlying issues had been apparent for months. Labour's large majority in July 2024 was based on weak support, with many voters choosing Labour mainly to remove the previous Conservative government. Public approval for Starmer declined significantly by early 2026, as his government faced challenges with immigration, the cost of living, and internal party disagreements. A scandal involving ambassador Peter Mandelson and his past connections to Jeffrey Epstein also damaged his administration.
Local elections in May 2026 saw Labour suffer heavy losses, while the Reform UK party, led by Nigel Farage, gained support. Key allies, including Health Secretary Wes Streeting and Defence Secretary John Healey, resigned in the months leading up to Starmer's departure.
With Starmer out, the path appears open for Burnham. Streeting has endorsed him, and Burnham is expected to secure the necessary lawmaker support to enter the leadership race. If he is the sole candidate, he could become Prime Minister within weeks, as the governing party can change leaders without a national election.