Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is currently in New York to attend a United Nations event, marking his first scheduled meeting with Donald Trump. During his flight, Burnham addressed concerns regarding his history of vocal opposition toward the former president. In 2017, Burnham famously refused to meet Trump, citing the then-president’s online activity as “hateful” and “extremist.” Furthermore, Burnham has previously criticized Trump’s response to the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Despite this history, Burnham told reporters that he does not believe these past comments will create friction during their meeting. He explicitly rejected the notion that the UK is “on the slide,” a sentiment he intends to convey during his time in the United States. While Burnham’s past rhetoric is well-documented, he is now positioning himself to engage in diplomatic discussions, suggesting that his previous stance will not impede the current agenda. The meeting represents a shift in Burnham's approach to U.S.-UK relations, moving from public condemnation to direct engagement.