Keir Starmer Faces Early Doubts as Insiders Question His Staying Power

It hasn’t even been a full year since Keir Starmer swept into power with a massive win for Labour—but already, some insiders are whispering that his time might be ticking. Conservative critics are fueling the fire, claiming, “Starmer will be gone in a year,” and the rumor mill is heating up with speculation about who might step in if he falters.

The trouble started over welfare reform. Starmer’s government proposed a bill to scale back disability benefits, hoping to save around £5 billion. But it backfired badly. Over 120 Labour MPs pushed back, forcing a major U-turn. The revised version now protects existing claimants and only applies the changes to new applicants. It also calls for a fresh review, headed by Disability Minister Stephen Timms, reported the Express.

That kind of internal revolt isn’t just noise—it’s a warning shot. One Labour MP said the government had been “too arrogant” and underestimated how serious the pushback would be. It marked the first big rebellion since Starmer took office, and the timing couldn’t be worse.

Adding fuel to the fire: Labour’s poll numbers have taken a hit. A recent drop in public support, along with voter frustration over flip-flops on fuel payments and other policies, has left many questioning if the prime minister has lost control of the narrative.

Now the question everyone’s asking—who’s next in line if Starmer stumbles?

There are a few key names swirling around Westminster. Angela Rayner, Labour’s Deputy Leader, has reportedly been testing her popularity behind the scenes. Health Secretary Wes Streeting is often mentioned too, though he’s brushed off the talk as “mischief making.” But his rising profile has party members watching closely.

Other potential challengers include Lisa Nandy and Yvette Cooper, both with strong experience and deep party ties. They’re not openly campaigning—but then again, they wouldn’t be, not yet.

Still, for all the noise, Starmer isn’t finished. Not even close. His majority is solid, and for now, most of his party is still backing him. But the next big test is coming quickly: Labour is expected to present another version of the welfare reform bill to Parliament on July 1. How Starmer handles that vote could determine whether he regains control or loses more ground.

At this point, it’s a waiting game. If he keeps stumbling, the pressure from within could start to boil over. And if one of those ambitious names decides to make a move, it could get interesting fast

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