Have your say on the next Prime Minister after Andy Burnham wins by-election. As political waves are made in the Makerfield by-election, could we see a new Prime Minister soon?
Andy Burnham's Victory and National Implications
The new MP in Makerfield could have national implications. The Makerfield by-election has implications far beyond the Northern constituency. As Andy Burnham comfortably claims the seat, questions are now being asked about his plans for the Labour Party.
Stirrings have already been felt that the former Mayor of Manchester could launch a leadership bid for the Labour Party. This would mean a new Prime Minister for the UK.
Potential Leadership Contest
What do you think of the potential future PM? Have your say below! Should Burnham launch a leadership bid, many are curious what that could entail. Reports say that Burnham already has 80 MPs on his side before even launching his bid.
Starmer, however, has already faced pressure from Wes Streeting, his former health secretary, who resigned from his cabinet earlier this year. Both Streeting and Burnham have said they would stand in any contest to replace the Prime Minister.
While no contest has been called yet, Burnham spoke after his victory, stating that he and his team hoped to "lay out a new path for Britain". Despite the political pressure, Sir Keir Starmer has insisted he will stand in a Labour leadership contest. He spoke to reporters after Burnham's win, insisting he will not "walk away" from Downing Street.
Decisive Victory in Makerfield
The decisiveness of Burnham's victory in Makerfield is clear. Labour's Burnham defeated Reform UK's Robert Kenyon by 9,231 votes, up from 5,399 in 2024, and Labour's vote share increased by 9.61%. This is in clear contrast to the local elections held on the 7th of May this year, which saw major gains for Farage's Reform UK, in areas which were historically Labour strongholds.
As Makerfield sees a new MP, further change could be on the horizon for people, even those away from the Northern constituency.
