Angela Rayner is reportedly preparing for a leadership challenge against Keir Starmer. Sources suggest she is already offering Cabinet positions to MPs in exchange for their support and is actively "on manoeuvres" to position herself for a potential bid, with expectations of backing from unions.
Rayner has also joined Tribune, a significant Labour backbench group that could serve as a vehicle for a leadership campaign. Despite facing scrutiny over her property dealings, her allies believe she is well-placed for a comeback, particularly favored by the left-leaning faction of the party over other potential candidates.
An early leadership contest would theoretically benefit candidates like Rayner who are currently MPs, unlike figures such as Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester. However, a source close to Rayner has dismissed these claims as "total rubbish," stating her focus is on her constituents.
The political maneuvering follows a turbulent week for the Labour party, marked by a failed attempt to oust Starmer and a controversial policy U-turn by Rachel Reeves on income tax. Several Labour MPs have expressed dissatisfaction with the current leadership, with one MP describing the situation as a "complete shambles" and another lamenting the party's disarray and perceived weakness.
This discontent has led to speculation about leadership changes, especially with upcoming local elections posing a potential challenge. Recent polling indicates alarmingly low satisfaction ratings for Keir Starmer, the worst recorded for any prime minister since 1977, and similarly low figures for Rachel Reeves as Chancellor.
Furthermore, polling shows Reform UK leading in popularity, with Labour's vote share at its lowest since 2008-2009. Many voters perceive the country as worsening, and Labour has lost its lead on key policy areas like the economy and healthcare.
