Labour blocks Andy Burnham from Gorton and Denton by-election

Plus: Obamas call fatal Minneapolis shooting 'assault' on US values

Monday, January 26, 2026 Good morning and welcome to your daily news briefing from The Independent.   Labour has blocked Andy Burnham from standing as a candidate in the Gorton and Denton by-election, the Obamas have called the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by a federal agent in Minneapolis an "assault" on US values, and The Independent understands that Sir Keir Starmer is planning to make Brexit the key dividing line at the next general election. Top stories 1 | Burnham breaks silence as Labour clashes over blocking of by-election bid Read more 2 | Fatal Minneapolis shooting is an 'assault' on US values, Obamas say Read more 3 | 'We want a real political fight over this': Why Starmer wants to make Brexit key issue at next election Read more 4 | Iran unveils mural warning of retaliation against US after Trump threats Read more 5 | Nearly 150 areas on flood alert as Met Office weather warnings issued Read more Editors' picks John Rentoul: Starmer must block Burnham's return if he wants to remain PM The real reason why Donald Trump wants world leaders to call him 'Daddy' Why logging could be the most healthy way to use the internet The Independent Debate The Independent Debate Are additional taxes on second homes fair? As long as there is homelessness, second homes should be taxed extra. It pushes up prices and increases shortages.   Ajames Get involved and share your views here. Don't forget to complete your registration You haven't completed your registration with The Independent. It's free, quick, and helps support our journalism while tailoring your experience. Register now to enjoy benefits including access to limited Premium articles, The Independent app, more than 20 newsletters and commenting on independent.co.uk. Complete your registration today to unlock access. WATCH  Trump praise of UK troops may be 'good as it gets' by way of apology STAT OF THE DAY 1,667ft Alex Honnold has made history after reaching the top of a 1,667ft skyscraper without ropes or safety gear. Read more QUOTE OF THE DAY "Reality is breaking completely under Trump." Kristen Stewart responded "probably not" when asked if she thought she would stay in the US while Donald Trump remains president. Read more Other stories you might like 'British FBI' to tackle terror and gang crime in police shake-up Wars to watch: What next for the world in Trump's second year in office? Britain has replaced children with dogs – and it's not healthy Get 53% off Hoover's robot vacuum and mop with code "HG2-170". Power up: this mini portable charger is now less than £11 at Amazon. Choosing The Independent as one of your preferred sources ensures that you'll see our coverage more prominently displayed in your searches. That way, you can be sure you're accessing the latest headlines from a trusted source. SOURCE PREFERENCES Join the conversation and follow us Download the free Independent app Please do not reply directly to this email   You are currently registered to receive The Independent's Evening Headlines newsletter.   To unsubscribe from The Independent's Morning Headlines newsletter, or to manage your email preferences please click here.   This e-mail was sent by Independent Digital News and Media Ltd, 14-18 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AH. Registered in England and Wales with company number 07320345 Read our privacy policy and cookie policy