U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer under pressure to resign after special election

Updated on: June 21, 2026 / 10:13 AM EDT / CBS/AP

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer under pressure to resign after special election

TL;DR

  • British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing pressure to resign or face a leadership challenge from Labour rival Andy Burnham.
  • Burnham won a special election, positioning him to challenge Starmer for leadership of the Labour Party.
  • Discontent within the Labour Party stems from declining popularity and perceived failures in economic growth, public services, and cost of living.
  • Starmer has stated he will fight any leadership contest if one arises.
  • Labour is losing voters to the Green Party and Reform UK, a party led by Nigel Farage.
  • The U.K. has experienced a high rate of prime ministerial turnover in recent years.