Andy Burnham faces perilous race to win Makerfield byelection, allies say
Andy Burnham is preparing for a challenging byelection in Makerfield, which could significantly impact the Labour Party's future. His allies warn that he faces tough competition from Reform UK, which recently garnered over 50% of the local election vote. The outcome of this byelection may determine not only Burnham's political trajectory but also the leadership of Keir Starmer and the overall viability of Labour.
- ▪Andy Burnham is likely to be confirmed as Labour's candidate for the Makerfield byelection.
- ▪Reform UK won more than 50% of the local election vote and is focusing on immigration and Brexit.
- ▪Pollsters suggest Burnham's personal popularity gives him a fighting chance despite the local election results.
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Andy Burnham campaigning in Ashton-in-Makerfield with Labour’s deputy leader, Lucy Powell, on Sunday. Photograph: Ioannis Alexopoulos/LNPView image in fullscreenAndy Burnham campaigning in Ashton-in-Makerfield with Labour’s deputy leader, Lucy Powell, on Sunday. Photograph: Ioannis Alexopoulos/LNPLabourAndy Burnham faces perilous race to win Makerfield byelection, allies sayReform, which won more than 50% of the local election vote, is likely to focus heavily on immigration and BrexitKiran Stacey Policy editorSun 17 May 2026 14.39 EDTLast modified on Sun 17 May 2026 14.40 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleAndy Burnham faces a perilous race to win the Makerfield seat, his allies have warned, as he gears up to fight a byelection that could decide the long-term future of Labour and the…
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