The highly anticipated Makerfield by-election, which many expected to be a tight contest between Reform UK and Labour, turned into a decisive victory for Andy Burnham. The Labour candidate secured a landslide win, polling 24,927 votes, while Reform UK's Rob Kenyon came in second with 15,696 votes.
Background of the By-Election
The by-election was triggered by the sudden resignation of Labour MP Josh Simons on May 14. Simons stepped down to allow Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to stand for election. His resignation followed growing calls for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to resign, with Burnham expected to launch a leadership challenge if elected. The outcome of this by-election could have significant implications for the UK political landscape.
Political Context
The by-election took place after Labour lost numerous council seats across Greater Manchester to Reform UK and the Green Party on May 7. This weakened Labour's control in councils such as Bolton, Tameside, and Oldham, which are now under no overall control.
The Candidates
Fourteen candidates stood in the Makerfield by-election, including Jake Austin (Lib Dems), Count Binface (Count Binface Party), Dan Clarke (Libertarian Party), Ed Gemmell (Climate Party), Paul Gould (Independent), Robert Kenyon (Reform), Robert Pownall (Independent), Rebecca Shepherd (Restore Britain), Sarah Wakefield (Green Party), and Michael Winstanly (Conservatives).
Controversy
The campaign was not without controversy. TV personality Carol Vorderman appealed to women in Makerfield not to vote for Reform's candidate after old social media posts resurfaced, which she claimed showed a pattern of misogynistic comments.
Results
Andy Burnham won with a commanding 24,927 votes, far ahead of Reform's Rob Kenyon. The result defied predictions of a close race and solidified Burnham's position as a key figure in Labour politics.
