The race to replace Starmer is on - but he still faces a momentous choice

Key Points:

• Labour is entering a leadership contest following Wes Streeting's resignation and Andy Burnham's bid to re-enter Parliament, signaling a possible challenge to Sir Keir Starmer's position as party leader and prime minister.
• There is division within Labour about whether to hold a contested leadership election or to unite behind Burnham to avoid a potentially damaging internal battle.
• Burnham's success in the Makerfield by-election is uncertain, with Reform UK mounting a strong challenge, and his failure could lead to shifts in support within the party.
• Despite leadership turmoil, Starmer remains in office with pressing domestic and international issues demanding attention, including defence spending, social care reform, and diplomatic efforts around the Strait of Hormuz.
• Starmer's leadership is criticized for indecision and lack of clear political conviction, raising questions about whether he will resign before or after a formal leadership contest begins.