Andy Burnham Secures Decisive Victory in Makerfield By-Election
LONDON — Andy Burnham has taken a significant step towards a potential Labour leadership bid, winning the Makerfield by-election by over 9,000 votes. The victory gives Burnham a parliamentary seat, allowing him to directly challenge Keir Starmer, who has struggled to connect with the British public.
Burnham's win boosts his standing among Labour MPs, who are considering replacing Starmer. In a victory speech, Burnham told his party it faces a "final chance to change." Starmer has insisted he will fight any challenge, but his cabinet will be closely watched for signs of a potential move against him.
The by-election result is also a setback for Nigel Farage's Reform UK, which tops national polls but was beaten by Burnham in a constituency not favorable to Labour. Turnout stood at 58.75 percent, up from 52.5 percent in the 2024 general election.
Burnham's return to Westminster as an MP comes after nine years as mayor of Greater Manchester. The timing of his expected challenge to Starmer is unclear, but a key ally, Louise Haigh, hopes for an "orderly" transition. A fresh by-election will be triggered in Greater Manchester to replace Burnham as mayor, as MPs are disqualified from serving as elected regional mayors.
Burnham's win boosts his standing among Labour MPs, who are considering replacing Starmer. In a victory speech, Burnham told his party it faces a "final chance to change." Starmer has insisted he will fight any challenge, but his cabinet will be closely watched for signs of a potential move against him.
The by-election result is also a setback for Nigel Farage's Reform UK, which tops national polls but was beaten by Burnham in a constituency not favorable to Labour. Turnout stood at 58.75 percent, up from 52.5 percent in the 2024 general election.
Burnham's return to Westminster as an MP comes after nine years as mayor of Greater Manchester. The timing of his expected challenge to Starmer is unclear, but a key ally, Louise Haigh, hopes for an "orderly" transition. A fresh by-election will be triggered in Greater Manchester to replace Burnham as mayor, as MPs are disqualified from serving as elected regional mayors.
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