Can Andy Burnham actually beat Reform in Makerfield to take on Starmer? Here’s what the data shows
Andy Burnham has received approval to stand in the Makerfield by-election, positioning himself to challenge Sir Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership. Despite Makerfield being a historically Labour stronghold, recent polling indicates a significant rise in support for Reform UK. Burnham's candidacy is seen as Labour's best chance to retain the seat amidst declining party support.
- ▪Andy Burnham has been cleared to stand in the upcoming by-election in Makerfield.
- ▪Labour's polling has collapsed while Reform UK's support has surged, winning every council ward in the constituency.
- ▪A recent forecast suggests Labour has a 67 percent chance of winning with Burnham as the candidate.
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NewsUKUK PoliticsCan Andy Burnham actually beat Reform in Makerfield to take on Starmer? Here’s what the data showsThe Mayor of Manchester has several obstacles to overcome on the long road to WestminsterAlbert Toth Monday 18 May 2026 16:42 BSTBookmarkCommentsGo to commentsBookmark popoverRemoved from bookmarksClose popover{"translations":{"comments":"Go to comments","share":"Share","copyLink":"Copy link","bookmark":"Bookmark","removeBookmark":"Remove bookmark"},"showComments":true,"showBookmark":true,"articleId":"CF1:2977126To1","articleMeta":{"url":"https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/burnham-starmer-makerfield-odds-reform-by-election-labour-b2978537.html","title":"Can Burnham actually beat Reform in crucial by-election? Here’s what the data shows"}}Burnham standing in…
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