MANCHESTER — Labour MP Andy Burnham announced his intention to run to replace Keir Starmer as Labour Party leader on June 22, 2026. The announcement followed Prime Minister Keir Starmer's resignation on the same day. Starmer stated he would step down as soon as his successor as Labour Party leader is chosen. Labour's national executive committee will open nominations for party leader on July 9, 2026.

Burnham served as Mayor of Greater Manchester from May 2017 until June 2026. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy described him as a "great ally" in the fight against antisemitism. Nandy stated that Burnham will stand with the Jewish community "always." She added, "He believes in justice, so is acutely aware of the need for a safe homeland for Jewish people, and the particularly unique historical reasons why Israel came into existence."

In 2018, Burnham used X, formerly Twitter, to call for the Labour Party to take a firmer stand against antisemitism. In 2019, he addressed the Board of Deputies at Manchester Town Hall. At the time, Burnham stated, "Racism needs to be dealt with firmly, quickly and decisively." He added, "I'm afraid that this hasn't been the response so far and I hope from this point forward this has been understood."

He spoke publicly about the 2025 Manchester synagogue attack on BBC Radio Manchester. Burnham also stated on X, "We stand with GM's Jewish community at this time and will work through the day to support them." In January 2026, he attended a Holocaust Memorial Day service with the Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester & Region (JRCMCR). JRCMCR chair Mark Adlestone acknowledged disagreements with Burnham, citing his call for a ceasefire while hostages remained in captivity as an example of friction.

On October 13, 2023, Burnham released a statement condemning the Hamas attacks in Israel. He stated, "Nothing justifies the taking of innocent lives in such a barbaric and indiscriminate manner." He added that Israel has the right to defend itself and protect its citizens, in line with international law. Burnham also stated that it is not acceptable to display flags being used to provoke confrontation or flags of proscribed organizations.

On October 27, 2023, Burnham released a statement calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and for hostages to be released unharmed. Burnham declined to describe Israel's actions in Gaza as genocide in a recent interview, stating, "I can't judge things of that enormity from where I am as mayor of Greater Manchester." In May 2015, Burnham stated, "I fully support two states living side by side in peace, and recognised by all of their neighbours." He also stated, "Palestinian statehood is not a gift to be given but a right to be recognised." Wes Streeting announced his support for Burnham for the Labour leadership.