Where does Starmer’s leadership stand – and who are his potential challengers?
Keir Starmer's leadership of the Labour Party remains under scrutiny despite a lack of clear alternatives, as speculation grows amid low approval ratings and internal party concerns. Angela Rayner, currently sidelined due to a tax investigation, is seen as a potential challenger though she has expressed reluctance to trigger a leadership contest. Other figures like Andy Burnham and Wes Streeting are also part of the political conversation, but no formal challenges have emerged.
- ▪Keir Starmer faces ongoing leadership speculation despite having the support of Labour's quiet majority in parliament.
- ▪Angela Rayner has privately expressed her ambition to become prime minister but has not sought to trigger a leadership contest.
- ▪Rayner's return to the cabinet depends on the resolution of her HMRC tax investigation, which may conclude by the local elections.
- ▪Andy Burnham is the only major Labour politician currently enjoying positive public approval ratings.
- ▪Labour MPs are hesitant to oust Starmer, fearing public backlash during a cost of living crisis and ongoing geopolitical instability.
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Angela Rayner. There are still some on the backbenches who wonder if she really wants to be PM – though she has privately made it clear she does. Photograph: Anadolu/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreenAngela Rayner. There are still some on the backbenches who wonder if she really wants to be PM – though she has privately made it clear she does. Photograph: Anadolu/Getty ImagesLabourExplainerWhere does Starmer’s leadership stand – and who are his potential challengers?With prime minister on shaky ground, we take a look at who could take a run at the Labour leadershipPippa Crerar Political editorThu 30 Apr 2026 16.25 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleAs the May elections creep closer, the leadership speculation at Westminster grows more intense.
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