The UK’s first TikTok PM? Andy Burnham channels Zohran Mamdani as he hits social media
Andy Burnham has begun his premiership with a markedly more informal and social-media-led communications style, using TikTok, Instagram and YouTube to promote policy and present a more accessible public image. The approach has prompted comparisons with New York mayor Zohran Mamdani and contrasts with the more conventional online operation associated with Burnham’s predecessor, Keir Starmer.
His first-week posts included a promise to tackle rough sleeping, a video on cutting VAT on energy bills and an “ask Andy anything” event in Cardiff. Searches for his name on TikTok reportedly rose by more than 2,000% when he became prime minister, while a day-one montage received over 820,000 views and his energy-bill video surpassed 1 million. Collaborations with figures including Mo Farah and TikTok creator Max Klymenko are intended to reach audiences beyond regular political followers, though experts note Burnham still needs to build wider recognition.
- Burnham is using TikTok-style videos to reshape political communication.
- His first posts combined policy pledges with influencer collaborations.
- Early videos attracted large audiences and sharply increased TikTok interest.
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The case for
Supporters argue that a prime minister using TikTok and other social platforms can make politics more accessible, particularly to people who do not follow Westminster through traditional news outlets. Informal updates and collaborations with familiar public figures may help humanise government, explain decisions in plain language and demonstrate a willingness to communicate directly rather than through tightly controlled press statements. They see this as a practical adaptation to how many citizens now receive information.
The case against
Critics argue that government communication should prioritise substance, scrutiny and accuracy over the speed and entertainment value of social media. A highly personalised TikTok presence may blur the line between public information and political branding, reward simplistic messaging and make serious policy appear performative. They also worry that direct-to-audience communication can sidestep difficult questioning from journalists and exclude people who do not use these platforms.
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