Starmer says he'll resign as UK prime minister, roiling British politics yet again

By — Jill Lawless, Associated Press Jill Lawless, Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/world/starmer-says-hell-resign-as-uk-prime-minister-roiling-british-politics-yet-again Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Starmer says he'll resign as UK prime minister, roiling British politics yet again World Jun 22, 2026 10:33 AM EDT LONDON (AP) — British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Monday he will resign, forced out by his own party after missteps and mistakes soured voters' goodwill following a landslide election victory two years ago on a promise of steady leadership and economic growth. Starmer says he will remain caretaker prime minister until his Labour Party chooses a new leader — with expectations growing that it will be former Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham. Educate your inbox Subscribe to Here’s the Deal, our politics newsletter for analysis you won’t find anywhere else. Burnham confirmed on social media that "I will put myself forward as part of this process." Former Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who was considered his main rival for the top job, said he will back Burnham. It was Burnham's victory in a special parliamentary election last week that triggered Starmer's decision to resign, as Labour lawmakers flocked to the charismatic former mayor in the hope he can revive the party's fortunes. After nearly a decade as mayor of the northwestern city, Burnham returned Monday to Parliament, where he took the oath of office in the House of Commons. Only members of Parliament are eligible for the party leadership. READ MORE: How UK's Keir Starmer went from election landslide to downfall Streeting's statement makes it more likely that Burnham will be selected without a leadership contest. Britain's next election does not have to be held until 2029. Asked if he would call an early vote if he becomes prime minister, Burnham said: "You're jumping several hurdles ahead there." Starmer is the sixth prime minister in a decade to stand outside No. 10 Downing St., and announce a premature departure. His statement came the day before Britain marks the 10th anniversary of its vote to leave the European Union, a decision that still roils the country's economy and politics. After weeks of insisting he would fight to keep his job, Starmer conceded to growing pressure to hand over to a new leader who can try and revive the government's flagging fortunes. He led Labour to a landslide election victory in July 2024, but since then his popularity and that of the party have plummeted. A new leader in place within weeks Starmer made the announcement outside his official residence, where he delivered his first speech as prime minister two years ago. His voice choked with emotion near the end of the brief statement, which was watched by his staff, Cabinet ministers and scores of journalists. "The question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead us into