- Andy Burnham – Widely regarded as the frontrunner to replace Starmer, Burnham is anticipated to launch a Labour leadership challenge imminently, benefiting from significant popularity among Labour MPs, party members, and the general public – with polls showing 47 per cent of members favouring him over Starmer's 31 per cent.
- Wes Streeting – The former health secretary resigned from Starmer's cabinet last month, stating his belief that Sir Keir would not lead the Labour Party into the next general election. Charismatic cabinet minister Mr Streeting, from the party's centre-right, is seen as a figure capable of connecting with the public.
- Angela Rayner – The Ashton-under-Lyne MP, who resigned from Starmer's cabinet last September following revelations she had underpaid stamp duty on her Brighton flat, has now been cleared of any wrongdoing, potentially paving the way for a leadership bid given her popularity on the soft left of the party and her reputation as a potential coup leader.
- Shabana Mahmood – The home secretary, who was effectively endorsed by former prime minister Tony Blair last year, Mahmood emerged as a front runner amid previous speculation that Sir Keir could be forced to step down.
- Al Carns – Al Carns' resignation last week has intensified speculation that the decorated former marine could emerge as a dark horse candidate in a potential Labour leadership contest – and Carns himself has not ruled out a run, emphasising his political career is driven by 'service' rather than 'ambition'.
IN FULL
