The path to Downing Street for Andy Burnham, the former Mayor of Greater Manchester, became clearer this morning as a significant hurdle was removed from his potential leadership bid.
A Starmer loyalist, Darren Jones, announced he would not run against Burnham, citing a "reassuring conversation" about the former Mayor's economic plans. The decision removes a potential challenger to Burnham's bid for the top job.
However, former Armed Forces Minister Al Carns has not yet ruled out a challenge, and many within the party remain skeptical about Labour's ability to provide "strong and stable leadership." In a recent poll, more than six in ten people voiced doubts about the party's leadership, with only 13% supporting a coronation for Burnham.
According to a recent Ipsos poll, 39% of people would like to see a contest for the leadership, while 13% would prefer a coronation for Burnham. The poll suggests that many people are looking for an alternative to the current leadership.
The Ipsos Director of Politics noted that given Andy Burnham's perceived ability to do a good job as Prime Minister, a Labour Party led by him could potentially improve in the polls. However, the Director also emphasized that there is still work to be done to restore confidence in the party's leadership.
