Keir Starmer remains under significant scrutiny within his party, with mounting challenges from rivals aiming for the leadership. One of these contenders is Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who has been making waves and potentially setting himself up as a formidable opponent to Starmer's tenure.
On Wednesday, health secretary Wes Streeting announced he would resign from his position, citing personal reasons but adding that it was "not the end of the road" for Labour. This move comes at a critical time when Burnham is also considering entering Parliament again through a by-election in Makerfield.
Burnham has earned public respect and support during his tenure as mayor, transforming from an insider to an outsider with strong grassroots backing. However, economic concerns could pose challenges for his bid for Downing Street, where he would need to address the country's financial issues if elected.
Starmer is now bracing himself for a leadership battle that may soon come into full view as Burnham prepares for potential re-election in Makerfield. The by-election could be pivotal in determining whether Starmer retains his grip on Labour’s top position or faces an internal coup from within the party.
The situation is exacerbated by ongoing political instability, with other members of Parliament pushing against Starmer's leadership and seeking reforms to strengthen their positions. This environment suggests that any moment could see a significant shift in power dynamics among Labour’s top brass.
This article was produced by AVALW News on Friday, May 15, 2026 based on reporting from 5 verified news sources. Our editorial process cross-references facts from multiple independent outlets to deliver accurate, comprehensive coverage. All original sources are linked below.