Andy Burnham has been officially confirmed as Labour's candidate for the upcoming Makerfield by-election, the party announced today. He emerged as the sole nominee on a shortlist of one, securing the party's backing without contest.
Reform UK Candidate
Burnham will face Robert Kenyon, the Reform UK candidate, who works as a local plumber and serves as an army reservist. Kenyon previously held a role as a specialist technician for the NHS in Lancashire.
In the 2024 general election, Kenyon stood as the Reform candidate in the same constituency, losing by 5,399 votes. However, he recently secured a seat on Wigan Council earlier this month, demonstrating growing local support.
Reform Leader's Comments
Reform leader Nigel Farage framed the contest as a high-stakes battle, stating, 'This by-election contest is now a David versus Goliath battle. This is ''the plucky plumber'' taking on ''open borders Burnham''.'
The by-election is expected to be a closely watched test of political sentiment in the region, with both candidates ramping up their campaigns.
