Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has stated that Andy Burnham should be heard "loud and clear at the top of politics" if he secures victory in the Makerfield by-election. The by-election, triggered by the resignation of Josh Simons, is seen as a potential launchpad for Burnham to challenge Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's leadership.
Burnham's Pledge to Change Politics
Andy Burnham has framed the Makerfield campaign as a "vote to change politics" and vowed to "take that fight as high as I can possibly take it." Speaking at the Stubshaw Cross Community and Sports Club in Ashton-in-Makerfield, Wigan, as voting commenced, Burnham emphasized his commitment to reshaping the political landscape. The by-election, held on June 18, 2026, has drawn significant attention due to the potential implications for Labour's leadership.
Nandy's Support for Burnham
Lisa Nandy, who represents the neighboring Wigan seat, praised Burnham's unique ability to win over voters, particularly those leaning towards Reform UK. She noted that Burnham has achieved what no other Labour politician could by mounting a strong challenge against Nigel Farage's party. "If Andy Burnham can beat Reform in this by-election, he will have done something that, frankly, no other Labour politician in the country could have done," Nandy told Sky News.
Nandy acknowledged that seven weeks ago, door-knocking in the area was a completely different experience, but Burnham's campaign has shifted the dynamic. She expressed hope that voices like Burnham's would be integrated into the party's top echelons. However, when asked about her preference in a potential leadership contest between Burnham and Starmer, Nandy sidestepped, reiterating her support for the Prime Minister while noting she would not serve in his cabinet unless she backed him.
Leadership Implications
If Burnham holds Makerfield for Labour, he is expected to use his return to the Commons to push for Starmer's removal. Allies of Burnham have made it clear he would not accept a cabinet position under Starmer. Instead, they hope for a "coronation" scenario where Starmer steps aside to avoid a damaging contest. However, Starmer has insisted he has no intention of leaving No 10 and has amassed a war chest to fund his defense against any leadership challenge, with pledges running into six figures from private donors.
Reform UK Threat and Other Factors
The main threat to Burnham's Westminster return comes from Reform UK's candidate Robert Kenyon, who expressed confidence in a strong vote for his party. However, the presence of Restore Britain, a party founded by Rupert Lowe after his split with Reform, could split the right-wing vote and aid Burnham. Turnout in the by-election reached 58.75%, higher than the 2024 general election figure, indicating heightened voter engagement.
Other By-Elections
Makerfield is one of three parliamentary by-elections taking place. The others are in Aberdeen South and Arbroath and Broughty Ferry, where SNP MPs Stephen Gethins and Stephen Flynn have stepped down after winning Scottish Parliament seats in May. The Conservatives are expected to take Aberdeen South, with Kemi Badenoch emphasizing support for the North Sea oil and gas industry. A senior SNP source conceded defeat, calling it the "Tories' night" but vowing to "win it back in 2029."
