Bridget Phillipson has been named Labour Party chair, with Andy Burnham using the appointment to sharpen the party’s election machine before the next general election. The move puts the minister for women and equalities in a central role as Labour looks to modernize its campaigning and prepare for the contest due by 2029 at the latest.
A Labour spokesperson said Phillipson will work closely with deputy Labour leader Lucy Powell to update the party for the next election. The emphasis, according to the party, is on a new digital campaigning environment, a stronger organizational setup, and the culture change needed to keep the party competitive nationwide. Burnham said Phillipson would play a vital role in making Labour “match fit” for the next vote.
The appointment also has a clear internal political edge. Phillipson and Powell faced off last year in the deputy leader race that followed Angela Rayner’s resignation, with Powell winning after securing 54% support from party members. The two now find themselves in overlapping roles, even as Burnham has reshaped the leadership team around his own priorities.
Phillipson had served as education secretary under Sir Keir Starmer, but that job was also given to Powell when Burnham announced his cabinet last week. Her move to party chair comes as Anna Turley, who held the post before her, was made a minister in the Home Office. Alongside chief whip Anneliese Midgley, the leadership team is expected to concentrate on building the infrastructure and policy platform Labour says it needs before the next election.
