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Labour Party Infighting: Rayner Eyes Leadership Comeback

1/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

Keir Starmer faces tensions within the Labour Party as Angela Rayner seeks a leadership comeback, stating, "I'm not dead yet."
Infighting escalates ahead of the Gorton & Denton by-election on February 26, 2024, with Rayner gaining support to challenge Wes Streeting.
Rayner, who resigned as deputy over unpaid tax, acknowledged Labour's past mistakes and called for unity against threats from Reform and the Greens.
The Prime Minister emphasized that only Labour can counter Reform's divisive politics, citing the party's achievements in the constituency.
Tensions also rise between Downing Street and Andy Burnham regarding candidate selection.

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Story summary

Keir Starmer faces tensions within the Labour Party as Angela Rayner seeks a leadership comeback, stating, "I'm not dead yet."
Infighting escalates ahead of the Gorton & Denton by-election on February 26, 2024, with Rayner gaining support to challenge Wes Streeting.
Rayner, who resigned as deputy over unpaid tax, acknowledged Labour's past mistakes and called for unity against threats from Reform and the Greens.
The Prime Minister emphasized that only Labour can counter Reform's divisive politics, citing the party's achievements in the constituency.
Tensions also rise between Downing Street and Andy Burnham regarding candidate selection.