Daily Politics from the New Statesman Angela Rayner vs. Wes Streeting: has the next leadership race begun?
Dec 4, 2025
Alva Ray, a political editor known for her insights on Labour dynamics, and Rachel Cunliffe, an associate political editor, dive into the internal maneuvers shaping Labour's future. They discuss the potential for a leadership contest sparked by poor local elections, highlighting Wes Streeting's unofficial candidacy and Angela Rayner as a formidable obstacle. The duo explores rising figures like Ed Miliband and Andy Burnham, weighing their strengths against policy constraints and public expectations. It’s a captivating analysis of the shifting landscape in the Labour Party.
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Leadership Contest Feels Inevitable
- A leadership contest feels inevitable inside Parliament even if not publicly declared.
- Many expect a contest by next summer, with May local elections a likely trigger.
Streeting Positioned As Front-Runner
- Wes Streeting is treated as the de facto declared candidate after Number 10 briefings.
- His allies need do little because the briefings have already fired the starting gun on his campaign.
Seat Vulnerability Shapes Leadership Odds
- Wes Streeting's small majority (528) makes his seat vulnerable and complicates leadership bids.
- MPs worry whether electoral appeal or ideological alignment should decide a leader.