Key facts
- Incoming UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is studying Donald Trump's populist methods.
- Burnham aims to connect with voters by channeling anger and portraying himself as an outsider.
- He uses social media and direct communication to present an informal image.
- Burnham's policy focus includes devolving power from London to regions.
- Reducing the cost of living is a critical issue for British voters.
Incoming UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham is reportedly studying the populist tactics of Donald Trump as he prepares to lead the country. Burnham, the new leader of the center-left Labour Party, aims to counter the surge of the far-right Reform UK party by adopting methods similar to Trump's, including channeling public anger and using social media to connect with voters.
Analysts suggest that while Trump is unpopular in Britain, his perceived ability to act on his promises is something Burnham can learn from. Both Burnham and Trump appear to share a resentment towards political elites, with Burnham and his co-author Steve Rotheram detailing in their book "Head North" how they felt dismissed by the establishment. Burnham, who previously served as the mayor of Greater Manchester, positions himself as an outsider from the working-class North of England.
Burnham utilizes direct communication channels, such as selfie videos, to foster an informal image and connect with the public. His proposed policies focus on devolving power from London to regional communities. However, experts emphasize that reducing the cost of living is the paramount concern for voters, a critical issue that has fueled frustration and anger.