As Andy Burnham prepares to assume the role of Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, questions are emerging about how he will navigate relations with the United States under President Donald Trump. Burnham’s ascension follows the imminent departure of Sir Keir Starmer, whose efforts to maintain a close rapport with Trump ultimately faltered amidst political turbulence.

Burnham faces the immediate challenge of establishing his relevance in Washington, where his profile is relatively low. Trump himself expressed limited familiarity with the incoming leader, noting only Burnham’s previous tenure as a mayor and describing him as “extremely liberal.” Similarly, U.S. Vice President JD Vance acknowledged his own unfamiliarity with Burnham, though highlighted a potential personal connection through their shared Catholic faith. Nonetheless, Burnham’s prior criticism of Trump—including comments accusing the former president of fostering “instability” and calling for UK politicians to distance themselves following the 2021 Capitol attack—may complicate efforts to build bridges.

Despite these obstacles, there is an indication within the Trump administration that constructive engagement with the UK remains a priority, particularly in the context of NATO. An early test of Burnham’s diplomatic approach will come at the upcoming NATO summit in Turkey, where defense spending presents a sensitive issue. Sources familiar with the administration’s perspective say Trump is focused primarily on financial contributions from allies and views Britain's anticipated defense investment plans with skepticism. U.S. officials have praised nations like Poland, Germany, and the Baltic states for their funding commitments but notably omitted the UK from such commendations.

The composition of Burnham’s cabinet, especially the appointment of the chancellor and foreign secretary, is also receiving attention from U.S. officials. Ed Miliband, reportedly the leading candidate for chancellor, is viewed unfavorably in Washington due to his opposition to North Sea oil and gas drilling, which they interpret as ideologically motivated and misaligned with U.S. energy priorities. Conversely, the Trump administration reportedly favors maintaining Yvette Cooper as foreign secretary, citing her established relationship with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and warning that frequent turnover in the role undermines British credibility. Other potential candidates for the position, such as Wes Streeting and David Miliband, face criticism over perceived resistance to U.S. policies or globalist leanings.

In terms of continuity, Burnham’s retention of National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell suggests some stability in UK security and diplomatic affairs. However, the status of Varun Chandra, the UK-US business envoy who is set to visit Washington shortly, remains uncertain amid reports of frustration with Foreign Office strategies during Starmer’s final months.

Burnham inherits a precarious trade relationship with the U.S., with a recently signed trade deal currently stagnant. Tensions have been exacerbated by Trump’s threat to impose 100% tariffs on countries, including the UK, that maintain digital services taxes on major technology companies. The tax, which has been in place in Britain since 2020 and generates substantial revenue, has become a flashpoint, with U.S. trade officials reportedly caught off guard by the sudden threat. Any escalation could jeopardize the trade agreement Britain secured last year, which offered preferential tariff rates relative to the European Union.

While Burnham has characterized U.S. politics as “divided” and “dark” and signaled a desire to avoid excessive focus on international matters at the expense of domestic priorities, he faces significant pressure to maintain a functional and productive relationship with Washington. His initial actions and appointments will likely influence whether he can avoid the diplomatic challenges that undermined his predecessor.