Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has launched his campaign for the Makerfield by-election, declaring that a vote for him is a vote to change Labour. Speaking at his campaign launch in Ashton-in-Makerfield, Burnham said the party needs to be better than it has been and promised to give voters the party they used to know.
Burnham's Message of Change
Burnham, who is widely seen as Sir Keir Starmer's main rival for the Labour leadership, said: 'I know my own party needs to change. We need to be better than we have been. A vote for me in this by-election is a vote to change Labour.' He emphasised that he is not offering more of the same, describing the by-election as a 'change by-election' and stating that British politics is tired and needs a new script.
Political Context
The by-election on June 18 comes after Labour suffered devastating electoral setbacks earlier in May in England, Wales, and Scotland. This has triggered speculation about Starmer's position as Prime Minister. Allies of Burnham have suggested he may not immediately launch a leadership bid if he wins the seat, but his candidacy is seen as a direct challenge to Starmer's authority.
Electoral Prospects
Pollsters indicate that Burnham's candidacy significantly boosts Labour's chances of retaining the seat, but the contest remains tough against Reform UK. Josh Simons, the Labour MP who stood down to make way for Burnham, won in 2024 by a margin of just 5,399 votes. Reform UK comfortably won every ward in the constituency at the recent local elections.
Other Candidates
The Liberal Democrats have selected Stockport councillor Jake Austin as their candidate. Austin said the people of Makerfield deserve better than the failing Labour government or the divisive politics of Reform UK. The Green Party's candidate, Chris Kennedy, withdrew hours after being selected due to personal and family reasons, though it later emerged he had shared controversial social media posts. Reform UK's candidate, Robert Kenyon, a plumber, said he is ready to take on the 'King of the North' and emphasised his local roots.
