A new cartoon by Stephen Lillie captures the political fallout from Andy Burnham's recent byelection victory in Makerfield. The illustration, published in The Guardian on June 21, 2026, uses satire to explore the shifting dynamics within Labour and the broader implications for the party's future.
Cartoon's Depiction of the Victory
Lillie's cartoon portrays Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, celebrating his win while surrounded by various political figures and symbols. The drawing highlights the tension between Burnham's regional success and the national Labour leadership under Keir Starmer. Key elements include a football representing the working-class vote and a backdrop of the Manchester skyline, emphasizing Burnham's strong local support.
Political Consequences Highlighted
The cartoon suggests that Burnham's victory could embolden him to challenge Starmer for the Labour leadership, a scenario that has been speculated upon by political analysts. According to the artist, the piece aims to show the 'consequences' of the byelection, including potential shifts in party loyalty and policy direction. The win has been seen as a test of Labour's appeal in its traditional heartlands.
Reactions and Analysis
Political commentators have noted that the byelection result underscores the divide between the party's metropolitan and northern bases. Burnham's campaign focused on local issues such as transport and housing, which resonated with voters. The cartoon serves as a visual commentary on these dynamics, using humor to critique the internal politics of the Labour Party.
