Who are Andy Burnham’s key aides and allies?
Andy Burnham is gearing up for a byelection campaign in Makerfield, supported by a small team of allies. His chief of staff, Kevin Lee, and former MP Josh Simons are key figures in his operation, which is currently run on a shoestring budget. Despite having ambitious plans, concerns have been raised about the adequacy of his support network for a serious challenge to Labour leader Keir Starmer.
- ▪Andy Burnham is launching his campaign for the Makerfield byelection following the resignation of Josh Simons.
- ▪His campaign team is small and primarily composed of volunteers and soft left MPs.
- ▪Concerns have been expressed about the lack of a well-organized machine to support Burnham's ambitions for leadership.
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Andy Burnham applauds during the launch of his campaign for the Makerfield byelection triggered by the resignation of Josh Simons, an ally. Photograph: Temilade Adelaja/ReutersView image in fullscreenAndy Burnham applauds during the launch of his campaign for the Makerfield byelection triggered by the resignation of Josh Simons, an ally. Photograph: Temilade Adelaja/ReutersAndy BurnhamExplainerWho are Andy Burnham’s key aides and allies?Manchester mayor continues to hone his political story, but will need deep organisation to win and wield power Burnham starts byelection campaign with thinly veiled pitch for No 10 Rowena Mason Whitehall editorSat 23 May 2026 05.00 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleAndy Burnham may have big ambitions, but the team charged with propelling him to…
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