As candidates in a crucial by-election prepare for Thursday’s vote, the outcome could influence the choice of Britain’s next prime minister. Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, aims to become an MP, positioning himself to potentially challenge Keir Starmer for Labour Party leadership.
Burnham, known as the “king of the north” for his accomplishments, enjoys significant popularity among the public, and topped a Survation poll as Labour members’ favored future leader earlier this year.
His primary opponent is Robert Kenyon from Reform UK, a local plumber who finished second in the 2024 general election for the seat. Although Reform UK leads in national polls, their chances in Makerfield are hindered by the presence of the small right-wing party, Restore Britain.
A win over Reform UK in Makerfield would bolster Burnham’s standing as a strong contender against Reform leader Nigel Farage, especially after Labour’s setbacks in May’s local elections.
However, Starmer has vowed to oppose any leadership challenge from Burnham, and former Health Secretary Wes Streeting has indicated his intention to compete in such a contest.
POLITICO provides ongoing coverage as the Makerfield campaign concludes, the results are announced, and their impacts play out.
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