Who could replace Keir Starmer? Top contenders to be UK prime minister

Keir Starmer, has announced plans to resign as the UK prime minister and the leader of the Labour Party on Monday, June 22.

The shocking move comes as Starmer was facing the weeks-long mounting pressure from party members on the grounds of worsening political and economic circumstances.

In a press conference at Downing Street Starmer announced, “The question being asked now is not who was best placed to take our party into power. The question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election,”

“I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question. I accept that answer with good grace. I will resign as leader of the Labour Party," he added.Speaking about the transition of leadership, Starmer asked his National Executive Committee of the Labour Party to make a timetable with nominations.

By September, the new leader will be selected before the parliament comes and this process will be launched from July and to be completed till summer recess which is week later on July 16. Until then, Keir Starmer is expected to remain in office.

Now after the official announcement of resignation of Starmer, the multi-billion dollar question arises: Who could replace Keir Starmer as PM and Labour Party leader. Here is the list of top contenders.

Andy Burnham: Leading contender

When it comes to leading contenders, only one name is circulating on various platforms: Andy Burnham. He is currently positioned as the primary successor. Following his game-changing triumph in the Markfield by-election, Burnham has emerged as public favourite to replace Starmer.

Besides favorable perception, Burnham also enjoys undisputable backing of many Labour MPs who see him as the most suitable alternative to guide the party through the current transition.

As per recent reports, it is suggested that the cabinet is looking to facilitate his transition without a formal and drawn-out leadership contest or general elections.

Wes Streeting

Another potential figure is Wes Streeting who previously expressed interests in contesting the leadership.

In May, Streeting resigned from Starmer’s cabinet calling for the change in leadership in the face of worsening conditions. However, political observers note that he may choose to strike a deal with other candidates rather than pursue a divisive leadership race

Right now, what’s the major downside for Streeting is his the right inclination which could make him unpopular with party members. Despite this he also enjoys strong support among Labour MPs.

Angela Rayner

As the former Deputy Prime Minister, she remains a prominent figure frequently mentioned in discussions regarding the future of the party.

In 2025, she resigned from the position of Deputy PM after being caught in tax-related controversy. The leftist party members support Rayner as a preferable candidate to take over the leadership.

Ed Miliband

Currently serving as Energy Secretary, he is occasionally noted in polling as a potential candidate. But he also faces similar challenges in public recognition as other cabinet members. This is quite uncertain as he dismissed the idea in November.

Shabana Mahmood

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has also been mentioned as a possible contender, but here is a catch. Her immigration changes have been controversial inside and outside the party, thereby dimming the backing prospects for her.

Coronation or general election?

Another significant issue is also gaining momentum, revolving around the coronation or general election.

In a recent post shared on X, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has criticised Prime Minister Keir Starmer, labeling him the "most incompetent prime minister" in modern British history and demanding that a general election be called at the "soonest possible date."

On the other hand, a growing number of Labour MPs is favoring a coronation over the general election, considering this move as a need of the hour. And Andy Burnham is the overwhelmingly favorite choice for this position.