Daily Politics from the New Statesman Can Andy Burnham be the next Prime Minister?
Dec 16, 2025
George Eaton, a Labour politics commentator, and Ethan Croft, a political correspondent, delve into the intriguing potential of Andy Burnham as a leadership contender. They explore Burnham's strong public appeal and complex standing within the Labour Party. Key topics include his progressive policy vision, the hurdles he faces in re-entering Parliament, and the challenges posed by party rules that could block his candidacy. They also speculate on the implications of gender-balance regulations and the likelihood of an independent run.
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Burnham's National Popularity
- Ipsos polling shows Andy Burnham leads Nigel Farage and is 13 points ahead of Keir Starmer as preferred prime minister.
- That national popularity keeps his name in leadership talks despite not having a parliamentary seat.
Membership Loyalty Limits Revolt
- Labour members warmed to Burnham but his approval dipped after being framed as disloyal to Keir Starmer at conference.
- Membership loyalty to sitting leaders makes mounting a successful intra-party challenge difficult.
Policy Break From Starmer
- Burnham proposes big shifts: radical devolution, public ownership and proportional representation.
- Those policies would mark a clear break from the Starmer government and decades of UK politics.