YouGov policy director Wells pointed out that one of the biggest weaknesses of former UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer was the difficulty in communicating effectively with the public and defending complex measures, such as tax increases, or presenting a unifying vision for the country.
In contrast, Andy Burnham, who took over the leadership of the Labour Party on Friday, is praised for his ability to demonstrate empathy and build rapport with voters. Wells commented that expressing emotions and perceiving people's difficulties is positive, as it establishes a connection with the public.
Although Wells acknowledges that Burnham does not possess the charisma of figures like Tony Blair (who was Prime Minister between 1997 and 2007), he represents a notable evolution compared to other recent Labour leaders.
YouGov surveys show that British citizens maintain some reservation regarding trust, a suspicion that affects politicians in general. However, Burnham is still seen by the majority of Britons as competent, decisive, and fundamentally likable, a trait that Wells believes can be decisive for a leader.
For Wells, one of Burnham's great advantages will lie in his aptitude for 'projecting a plan' for the future and justifying political choices to voters, including any necessary sacrifices. He observed that when this message comes from someone people trust and like, it is more easily accepted.
Despite these qualities, the YouGov official warned that these advantages cannot solve the country's structural problems, such as low productivity or weak economic growth. Wells admitted that improving communication helps, but it does not boost the economy, emphasizing that Burnham will need to make difficult decisions to show tangible results by the end of his term, scheduled for 2029.
Wells considers it unlikely that three years will be enough to resolve the UK's core issues, but agrees that this period may be adequate to persuade the electorate that the country is on the right track.
YouGov data indicates that currently, a significant portion of voters consider Burnham more capable than Starmer: 23% believe he will do better, compared to only 8% who predict poorer performance. However, public opinion remains divided on the differences between the two candidates, showing low levels of expectation for change in political areas such as the economy, immigration, and the social welfare system.
Burnham's strong connection to Northern England can be interpreted as a vulnerability, as there are concerned voters who worry he will govern primarily for the benefit of that region, rather than the national interest.
Until mid-May, the approval rating of the former Mayor of Manchester (in the North) was positive, but in recent weeks it has fallen, especially among right-wing party activists. Wells explained that he was practically the only Labour politician with a favorable rating, but is now in negative territory, predicting a possible short-term improvement in Labour Party voting intentions due to Burnham's leadership.
Regarding the possibility of early elections, the analyst downplayed its importance, noting that support for this idea varies depending on whether the parties are in government or opposition. Wells concluded that Burnham will have a politically simpler path than Starmer in terms of communication and empathy, but will continue to face the same structural challenges that require difficult decision-making.
Keir Starmer is expected to formally resign as Prime Minister to King Charles III on Monday, at which point Burnham will be called upon to form a Government as the leader of the parliamentary majority party.
Following the official announcement of the results of his internal election, in which he ran without opponents and received the support of 94% of the parliamentary group, Andy Burnham, the new leader, expressed gratitude for the support received from MPs, trade unions, and party structures.
Burnham stated that this election represents a cry coming from 'forgotten places' across the country, aiming to recover 'the Labour Party they knew'. He guaranteed that the objective is to 'give them back hope'. The leader committed to guiding a more united party, free from internal disputes, and adopting a policy focused on results rather than concentrating on partisan confrontations.
The new leader praised his predecessor, Keir Starmer, crediting him with taking the party 'from its worst defeat to one of the greatest victories in the history' of the formation. Among the achievements mentioned are the strengthening of labor rights, the reduction of waiting lists in the public health system, the nationalization of trains, and the approval of the 'Hillsborough Law'. On the other hand, Burnham criticized the guidelines followed since the 1980s, arguing that they centralized economic and political power, intensified regional disparities, and weakened industrial cities.
He emphasized that the four decades of neoliberalism initiated in the 80s have not benefited either the party's home grounds or communities across the UK, covering rural and coastal areas. Burnham advocated for a change of direction, proposing greater public control over essential services such as housing, water, energy, and transport, in addition to implementing a reindustrialization strategy to return decision-making power to the regions. Among his priorities, he cited strengthening the party's internal cohesion and promoting a 'new policy' with a clear labour inclination.
Burnham declared that the party could be one that transfers more power to the people, drives positive growth in all postcodes, and brings hope to everyone, allowing the country to reunite and overcome recent divisions. Finally, he assured that he will maintain a leadership close to the citizens, stating: 'I will not change. I have a style. It is my style. I will always keep my feet on the ground, close to the people.'
It is expected that Andy Burnham will be sworn in as Prime Minister on Monday, following Keir Starmer's formal resignation to King Charles III. The monarch will then invite Burnham to form a government as the leader of the majority party, without triggering legislative elections.
