UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reportedly preparing to resign, with a decision expected as early as Monday following mounting pressure from within the Labour Party.
Why it matters: Starmer's potential resignation highlights a shift in leadership dynamics within the Labour Party, especially after rival Andy Burnham's recent success in a special parliamentary election.
Starmer is discussing his political future with his wife, Victoria, before announcing a timetable for his departure from 10 Downing St. next week.
Burnham's victory in Greater Manchester has positioned him as a strong contender for the Labour leadership, gaining support from over half the Labour MPs.
Starmer's approval ratings have plummeted, exacerbated by economic and immigration challenges facing the UK.
Driving the news: The pressure on Starmer intensified after Burnham's decisive parliamentary win, which has galvanized support among Labour MPs for a leadership challenge.
More than 100 Labour lawmakers, about a quarter of the party's representatives in the House of Commons, have publicly called for Starmer to step down or announce a timetable for his exit.
Burnham's campaign has gained momentum, with estimates indicating he has backing from close to 300 MPs, making a leadership coronation increasingly likely.
Starmer has faced criticism for his handling of key issues, including his refusal to allow U.S. military operations from UK bases in the conflict against Iran, which has strained relations with President Trump.
State of play: Starmer's position appears precarious as allies express doubt about his ability to effectively lead the party moving forward.
A senior government figure noted that Starmer has realized the "game is up" and is contemplating how to preserve his legacy.
Five senior Cabinet ministers have urged Starmer to set a timetable for his resignation rather than contest a leadership challenge he is unlikely to win.
Starmer's support has dwindled to a small circle of loyalists, primarily friends and family, according to sources within the party.
The big picture: The Labour Party is at a crossroads, with leadership changes potentially reshaping its future direction ahead of upcoming elections.
Burnham's victory and growing support signal a desire for a new approach within the party, contrasting with Starmer's leadership style.
Insiders suggest that if Starmer does not resign by Tuesday morning's Cabinet meeting, he may face a more brutal and humiliating exit.
Speculation is rife about potential appointments in a new leadership team, including the possibility of Wes Streeting as chancellor if he agrees not to run against Burnham.
What they're saying: Reactions from within the party reveal a mix of urgency and resignation as Labour grapples with its leadership crisis.
“The herd is not just moving against Keir Starmer, it’s stampeding,” said Harriet Harman, highlighting the urgency for Starmer to step aside.
Former home secretary Alan Johnson expressed that Starmer should recognize the inevitability of Burnham's ascent, stating, "If I could speak to him now, I’d say ‘It’s over, Keir; Andy is going to stand and he’s going to win.’"
One Labour MP remarked on the need for a swift transition, asserting that a coronation of Burnham would be preferable to a contested leadership battle.
By the numbers: The figures reveal the extent of dissatisfaction with Starmer's leadership and the potential backing for Burnham.
Over 100 Labour MPs have publicly expressed their desire for Starmer to resign or set a timetable for his exit.
Burnham has secured support from close to 300 MPs, a clear indication of the backing he enjoys within the party.
Starmer's approval ratings have dropped significantly, with many attributing this decline to his handling of pressing national issues.
What's next: The coming days will be decisive for Starmer and the Labour Party as they navigate this leadership crisis.
Starmer faces a hard deadline to announce his resignation before the Tuesday Cabinet meeting, with insiders urging him to act quickly and gracefully.
Burnham's supporters are mobilizing to secure his leadership, aiming for a smooth transition without a contested election.
As speculation mounts, Starmer's final decision will likely shape the political climate leading into the autumn session of Parliament.