Trump predicted it, Starmer confirmed it: UK prime minister announces resignation

Political pressure in the United Kingdom ended with Keir Starmer’s resignation announcement. Speaking outside No. 10 Downing Street, Starmer said he would step down as Labour Party leader and remain as prime minister until his successor is chosen. His announcement came one day after US President Donald Trump claimed that Starmer would resign, accusing him of failure on immigration and energy policy.

He informed King Charles

Starmer said he had spoken to King Charles in the morning to inform him of his decision. He also asked Labour’s National Executive Committee to set out a leadership timetable. Nominations are expected to open on July 9, with the process completed before the summer recess.

This means a new Labour leader is expected to be in place before Parliament returns in September.

Starmer: I put my country first

Starmer said the key question for his party was whether he was the right person to lead Labour into the next general election. He said he had heard the answer and accepted it with grace.

The outgoing prime minister said every decision he had taken was guided by putting the country first.

He defended his Labour record

Before announcing his resignation, Starmer reflected on the state of the Labour Party when he took over. He said he had inherited a party that was politically, financially and morally damaged.

Starmer said many had claimed Labour was finished, but argued that the party’s 2024 general election victory proved them wrong.

He also said his leadership had restored trust on the economy, defence and national security.

Emotional farewell to his family

Starmer became emotional as he thanked his family at the end of his speech. He said he would now spend more time on what he called “the most important job”: being the best husband and father he can be. Starmer thanked his wife Victoria, describing her as a rock by his side through good times and bad. He also spoke of his children as his pride and joy. After the speech, he hugged his wife before returning inside No. 10.

Trump had pointed to resignation

Starmer’s announcement came after Donald Trump claimed a day earlier that the British prime minister would resign.

Trump said in a social media post that Starmer had failed on immigration and energy policies. His comments drew attention as political uncertainty in London was already growing.

Trump claims Starmer will resign: “He failed badly on immigration and energy”

Pressure had been building

Starmer had faced mounting pressure in recent weeks. Falling poll numbers, concerns over weak economic growth, policy reversals and unrest within the Labour Party increased questions over his leadership. Critics had focused particularly on welfare, tax policy and workers’ rights.

Reform Party rise worried Labour

The rise of Nigel Farage’s Reform Party also deepened concern within Labour. Many Labour MPs now view Reform as a serious threat at the next general election. This growing pressure strengthened calls for a leadership change.

Andy Burnham in focus

One of the names now being discussed is Andy Burnham. The Greater Manchester mayor has long been seen as a major figure within Labour. Burnham previously served as an MP for 16 years and twice ran for the Labour leadership. After returning to Parliament on June 18, he cleared the way for a potential challenge to Starmer.

New leader expected before September

Starmer said he would do everything possible to ensure a smooth handover. He also promised to give his successor full support. The leadership process is expected to be completed before Parliament returns in September.