Labour’s Andy Burnham wins the Makerfield by-election with 24,927 votes, clears path to challenge Starmer
Andy Burnham took a first step toward a possible bid for British prime minister on Friday after winning a by-election in Makerfield, northwest England. He secured 24,927 votes, defeating Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon, who received 15,696.
Burnham, who has already spoken openly about challenging Prime Minister Keir Starmer for leadership of the Labour Party, is now set to return to Parliament. Starmer, whose leadership of the Labour Party has faced growing criticism over scandals and policy missteps, is seen by critics as lacking a clear plan for Britain’s post-Brexit economy, with some MPs warning of a potential defeat to the hard-right Reform UK led by Nigel Farage, a known ally of President Trump.
To formally challenge Starmer, Burnham would need backing from 81 Labour MPs. He would then face Starmer in a leadership contest, where Starmer has said he would stand and defend his position. Pressure on the prime minister is already significant, with about 110 Labour MPs reportedly signing a letter calling for him to step down. Also expected to run is Wes Streeting, who recently resigned as health secretary to prepare a leadership bid.
