Trump criticises Andy Burnham as UK succession moves into focus
The US president called Andy Burnham “extremely liberal” after Keir Starmer announced plans to step down, Al Jazeera reported.
By Lucas Ferreira · Science & Environment Writer
1 min read
US President Donald Trump has weighed in on Britain’s expected change of leadership, describing Andy Burnham as “extremely liberal,” according to Al Jazeera. The remark matters because Burnham is the only reported candidate to replace Keir Starmer after Starmer announced plans to step down.
Al Jazeera reported that Trump made the comment in his first public remarks about the politician likely to become the United Kingdom’s next leader. The report identified Burnham as the sole candidate to succeed Starmer.
Trump also said Britain is “dying,” Al Jazeera reported. He linked his criticism to energy policy, urging more oil drilling in the North Sea.
The comments place Trump’s view of Britain’s political direction into the open as the UK prepares for a leadership transition, according to Al Jazeera’s account. The report did not include a response from Burnham or Starmer.
Al Jazeera reported the remarks on June 25, 2026.
This story draws on original reporting from Al Jazeera.