U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer stepping down after election losses

Britain's head of government announced his plan to resign during a Monday address outside 10 Downing Street in London, citing mounting intraparty pressure. Starmer’s Labour Party suffered major losses in May during the country’s local elections. In his address, Starmer voiced concern for his ability to successfully lead the party through another election.

What else did he say? Starmer thanked the Labour government and listed what he characterized as various party achievements during his time in office, including a stronger economy, higher wages, more investments, and improved rights for workers and tenants. Starmer insisted he put Britain first in every decision he made, and said he hoped the new party leader would secure the Labour Party a second term in office.

Starmer assumed the prime minister role about two years ago, edging out Conservative Party leader Rishi Sunak. Starmer’s resignation primed the U.K. to receive its sixth prime minister in seven years.

How have other governments responded? Various world leaders released statements acknowledging the resignation and thanking Starmer for his service, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. President Donald Trump predicted Starmer’s resignation in a Sunday statement, specifically citing Starmer’s approaches to energy and immigration, which Trump characterized as failures.

What’s next? Starmer said he already informed King Charles III of his resignation, but planned to remain in office until his successor was chosen. The Labour Party’s National Executive Committee planned to set out a timetable with nominations opening on July 9, Starmer said. Officials planned to elect a new Head of Government by the end of Parliament’s summer recess, he added.