Andy Burnham has beaten Nigel Farage in his first big political test – a poll of who voters would most like to have a pint with. Beer-loving Burnham, expected to become Prime Minister in just a few weeks, came out on top with 34% voting for him, while just 28% picked the Reform UK leader, who is often seen with a cigarette and a beer in hand in photos.
Burnham's appeal across key traits
Pollsters BMG also pitted Burnham and Farage against each other on a series of traits, such as authenticity, integrity, and competence. Mr Burnham came out on top in all areas. A spokesman said: "Burnham’s appeal doesn’t stop at authenticity and integrity, and that’s what’s really striking. Most score well on one or two of these buckets, rarely all three. Some come across as competent but detached, short on warmth and relatability; others seem authentic and in touch yet leave doubts about whether they can do the job. Burnham is the rare politician who pairs that warmth and trust with a clear sense of competence too."
Detailed poll results
On authenticity, voters favoured Burnham 41% to 25% when asked who better "understands people like me", a sixteen-point gap and the widest on any measure tested. He led on being genuine too, 40% to 25%, and on being comfortable and at ease with himself, 38% to 30%. On integrity, Burnham led Farage 38% to 23% on being honest, a fifteen-point lead, and 36% to 25% on delivering on his promises. On competence, voters favoured Burnham 41% to 25% on being more competent, 38% to 26% on handling a national emergency under pressure, and 36% to 28% on having a clear plan and vision for the country.
Burnham's beer credentials
Mr Burnham is a noted beer drinker. After winning the Makerfield byelection last month, he told journalists: "I'm going to go and have a pint." He was later pictured with a pint of lager as he thanked Labour staff and canvassers. The former Greater Manchester Mayor has pledged to cut business rates for pubs and has been backed by his former night-time economy advisor Sacha Lord to save Britain's boozers. Lord previously said of Mr Burnham: "He loves a pint. He can hold his own as well. He drinks Guinness, but to be fair, he loves anything."
