Andy Burnham shocked viewers today with his formal appearance in Westminster as he was sworn in as MP for Makerfield. The former Manchester Mayor left his city this morning wearing a T-shirt and jeans to board the train to London, but changed into an uncharacteristically formal suit and tie for the official ceremony this afternoon. Burnham, who is making a bid to become Prime Minister after Sir Keir Starmer's sensational resignation this morning, is normally seen in casual clothes, which many believe is a deliberate attempt to connect with his constituents.
Social media reacts to Burnham's attire
One person took to X after seeing his casual attire this morning, writing he was "pretending to be one of us", adding: "He wore no shirt or tie, embodying the spirit of a working-class hero." A second asked: "Has Andy Burnham taken a tie with him to Westminster? I know it's not exactly the weather for ties, but surely there comes a moment when Burnham has to start wearing one again?"
Symbolic shift to formal wear
However, his appearance changed entirely for the ceremony this afternoon, wearing the MP uniform of a dark suit and white shirt. One person joked: "OMG! Andy Burnham owns a suit and tie!" A second suggested this was a symbolic shift, writing: "Here he comes, Andy Burnham in a suit and tie... the beginning of the end." According to analysis by the Spectator, Burnham's wardrobe is "all about telling put-upon voters everywhere that he is grounded and relatable, just an ordinary northern bloke making his way in life."
Rebranding from Blair era to mayor
He often adopted all-black outfits during his time as mayor, wearing bomber jackets, jumpers and T-shirts, a far cry from his days during Blair's rule, when he was always seen in a suit and tie. Many believe his rebranding during his mayoral term firmly positioned him as a man of the people, making his return to suits today ever more symbolic.
Burnham confirms leadership bid
The former Greater Manchester mayor, who will bid for Labour leadership, shared a post on X today thanking Sir Keir following his resignation, and confirming he will run for PM. Posting on X, he said: "Keir has given huge service to our country and I want to thank him for his leadership and dedication during such a challenging period. His decision marks the beginning of a transition and it is important that this process is conducted in an orderly and responsible way. I will put myself forward as part of this process."
Mobbed by crowds at Manchester station
This morning, the Makerfield MP was mobbed by crowds as two police officers escorted him to his train at Manchester station. Asked whether he would be the prime minister by July, Burnham smiled and said: "Getting sworn in as MP for Makerfield is the most important thing today."
