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Starmer says he will run in a leadership contest as Burnham eyes a challenge
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester, won a special election for a parliamentary seat in Makerfield, signaling his intention to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for Labour Party leadership.
- Burnham secured nearly 55% of the vote, defeating Reform UK candidate Rob Kenyon, and positioned himself as the leading contender to replace Starmer amid Labour's declining popularity.
- Starmer, despite calls from colleagues to resign, vowed to fight any leadership challenge, but internal party pressure is mounting for a dignified exit following Labour's poor local election results.
- Burnham campaigned on a platform of change and unity, promising to implement his "Manchesterism" approach nationally to revive the economy and restore public trust in politics.
- The outcome intensifies speculation about Labour's leadership future, with potential for a leadership contest if Starmer loses key Cabinet support or decides to step down.
