Keir Starmer to step down as prime minister two years after historic election victory

Keir Starmer announced he will step down as prime minister on June 22, 2026, following intense pressure from Labour MPs. This decision comes less than two years after securing a historic election victory. The pressure intensified after Andy Burnham's return to Westminster and amid concerns from MPs about the growing threat from Nigel Farage's party ahead of the next general election. Burnham's success in Makerfield against Reform UK is cited as a significant factor contributing to the calls for Starmer's departure. Many Labour MPs are reportedly concerned about the party's electoral prospects given the surge in support for parties like Reform UK across England, as highlighted in recent analyses of political trends.