London Mayor Sadiq Khan has indicated he plans to seek a fourth term in office in 2028, suggesting he has already formulated strategies for potential challenges. This move, if confirmed, would extend his tenure beyond a decade, making him the longest-serving Mayor of London. Khan's statements come amid discussions about political leadership and the evolving landscape of London's political representation.
Current Political Landscape and Khan's Position
Mayor Sadiq Khan, currently serving his third term, has provided strong hints that he intends to run for re-election in 2028. This potential fourth term would build upon his existing record as London's longest-serving mayor.
Khan's current term began in May 2024.
He has stated that he does not wish to lead the Labour Party or become Prime Minister, and has ruled out returning to Parliament as an MP.
He has described his current role as "the best job in politics."
There are no term limits for the Mayor of London.
Evidence of Khan's Intent
Multiple sources indicate Sadiq Khan's inclination to seek a fourth term:
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Statements to the Press: Khan has made several public statements to news outlets, including the Evening Standard and LBC, signaling his intention to stand again.
Campaign Preparedness: He has stated he has "already worked out the '28 campaign" and has "a plan to deal with Reform."
Focus on Challenges: Khan has also spoken about developing strategies to counter specific political threats, including Reform UK and its candidate, Laila Cunningham, and even referencing the potential presence of Count Binface.
Rejection of Other Roles: He has explicitly ruled out pursuing roles such as Labour Party leader or Member of Parliament, directing his political focus towards City Hall.
"As long as I can deliver, I will carry on doing so."— Sadiq Khan
"The key thing was to rule out I do not want to be the leader of the Labour Party or the Prime Minister..or…to do so saying I want to be an MP again."— Sadiq Khan
"I relish campaigns."— Sadiq Khan
"I have already worked out the ‘28 campaign."— Sadiq Khan
Political Context and Challenges
Khan's potential re-election bid unfolds against a backdrop of evolving political dynamics and specific challenges:
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Electoral Standing and Public Perception
Favourability Ratings: A poll indicates Sadiq Khan has a favourability rating of +74, significantly higher than other metropolitan mayors like the Mayor of Greater Manchester (+39). West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin (+56) and Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram (+44) also have notable ratings.
Internal Labour Support: A poll of Labour members found Khan to be the most popular metropolitan mayor.
Criticism: Despite his high ratings, Khan faces criticism regarding issues such as the cost of living and property prices in London. Susan Hall, leader of the Conservative group on the London Assembly, has stated that the Mayor has "yet to keep a single promise he's ever made."
Political Opposition and Campaign Strategies
Reform UK: Khan has directly addressed the challenge posed by Reform UK and its candidate Laila Cunningham, suggesting he has strategies to counter their influence in London. He has also commented on the uncertainty surrounding Cunningham's candidacy.
Conservative Opposition: Conservative figures, such as Susan Hall, have expressed skepticism about Khan's announcement.
Media Scrutiny: Khan has faced commentary regarding his long tenure, with some suggesting his announcement might be a reaction to current political pressures. He has also noted the extent of abuse he and his family have experienced during his time in office.
Legacy and Policy Focus
Khan has highlighted achievements during his time as Mayor, including efforts to improve London's air quality, the opening of the Elizabeth line, and the provision of free school lunches. His platform for his third term included promises to build a "fairer, safer and greener London" and to make it a "byword for opportunity." He has also been involved in policy initiatives such as expanding night-time economy operations.
Analysis of Statements
Khan's repeated emphasis on having campaign plans ready for 2028, particularly in relation to Reform UK, suggests a proactive approach to the next electoral cycle. His clear rejection of leadership aspirations within the Labour Party or a return to Westminster indicates a commitment to the mayoral role itself.
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Was his statement about already planning the '28 campaign intended to preemptively address internal party discussions about potential candidates?
Does his direct mention of Reform UK signal a strategic focus on a specific electoral threat he perceives as significant?
Expert and Political Commentary
Commentary from political figures and analysis pieces offer varying perspectives:
Susan Hall (Conservative): Views Khan's announcement as potentially "on-the-spot panic" and questions his fulfillment of past promises.
LabourList: Reports Khan giving his "strongest hint yet" about seeking a fourth term.
LBC: Khan stated on LBC radio, "That is my intention," when asked about running again.
"Considering the Mayor has yet to keep a single promise he’s ever made, we can probably disregard today’s announcement as the on-the-spot panic of a man who hasn’t yet figured out what Parliamentary seat he can slot himself into.”— Susan Hall, Leader of the Conservatives on the London Assembly
Conclusion and Next Steps
Sadiq Khan has significantly increased the likelihood of him running for a fourth term as Mayor of London in 2028. His explicit statements and preparedness for future campaigns suggest a strong intention to continue in his current role.
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Confirmation: Official confirmation from Sadiq Khan and the Labour Party is anticipated closer to the election period.
Campaign Dynamics: The 2028 election will likely see him facing challenges from various political parties, with Reform UK appearing to be a key focus of his stated strategies.
Public Opinion: His sustained popularity and a clear stance on his political future will be central to his re-election efforts.
Sources:
The Evening Standard - Published 2 days ago. Focuses on Khan's strong hint and favourability ratings, along with his comments on Reform UK and campaign plans.
Daily Mail - Published 2 days ago. Highlights Khan's speech and attacks on political opponents, alongside his implication of running again.
LBC - Published 1 day ago. Reports on Khan's hints, noting he is London's longest-serving mayor and faces pressure on cost of living.
GB News - Published 2 days ago. Cites an LBC podcast where Khan ruled out being an MP again and notes his favourability rating.
LabourList - Published 2 days ago. States Khan gave his "strongest hint yet" in an exclusive with the London Evening Standard.
The Evening Standard - Published September 26, 2025. Reports Khan stating his intention to stand again and rejecting the idea of pursuing Labour leadership.
GB News - Published 2 days ago. Confirms Khan's plans to run for a fourth term, linking it to Sir Keir Starmer's defence of him.
southlondon.co.uk - Published September 26, 2025. Reports Khan's intention to run, alongside his comments on abuse and criticism from Susan Hall.
Express - Published 2 days ago. Mentions Khan taking a swipe at Reform's candidate and recent low housebuilding rates.
My London - Published September 26, 2025. Details Khan's intention to run, abuse experienced, and criticism from Susan Hall.
Harrow Online - Published September 26, 2025. Similar to other reports, notes Khan's intention, abuse, and Susan Hall's comments.
Enfield Dispatch - Published September 26, 2025. Reports Khan's intention to run for a fourth term and his comments on the role.
Express - Published September 26, 2025. Confirms Khan will seek a fourth term, calling the role "the best job in politics" and notes Conservative criticism.
London.gov.uk - Published May 7, 2024. Official statement on Khan signing in for his third term, outlining promises for fairer, safer, and greener London.
The Evening Standard - Published 3 days ago. Reports on Khan's consultation for the night-time economy, highlighting his role in licensing.
Wikipedia - Published 1 day ago. Page on the 2028 election, status marked as low priority due to insufficient extracted data.
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