# Why is Andy Burnham so popular & will he challenge Keir Starmer?

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/james-o-brien-daily-7140035/why-is-andy-burnham-so-popular-will-he-challenge-keir-starmer
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/james-o-brien-daily-7140035/why-is-andy-burnham-so-popular-will-he-challenge-keir-starmer.md
Podcast: [James O'Brien Daily](https://stenobird.com/podcast/james-o-brien-daily-7140035)
Published: 2026-05-15T14:20:00+00:00
Episode link: https://james-obrien-daily.captivate.fm
Audio file: https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/f4d8ca02-fc36-4b75-bd37-ac7a1afa6589.mp3?aw_0_1st.showid=3dc25db1-030b-4bf2-a725-90d94e43aa2a&aw_0_1st.episodeid=f4d8ca02-fc36-4b75-bd37-ac7a1afa6589
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Duration seconds: 3828

## Resource

Today, James tackles the political bombshell shaking Labour: MP Josh Simons has resigned, clearing a path for Andy Burnham to return to Westminster - and potentially mount a future leadership challenge. Is this a smart political move, blatant career choreography, or exactly what Labour needs right now? And if you’re from Manchester, why does Burnham remain so popular? From the Bee Network to his “King of the North” reputation, James asks what’s behind Burnham’s rising appeal and and whether that popularity could translate nationwide. This episode was recorded on the 15th of May. James O'Brien Daily is a Global production, available every week day on Global Player, or wherever you get your shows. Make sure you subscribe so you never miss an episode.

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## Transcript

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