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Jun 18, 2026 Major3
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Burnham Wins Makerfield By-Election, Paving Way for Labour Leadership Showdown
Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election decisively, securing a seat in Parliament and positioning himself as the main challenger to Prime Minister Keir Starmer for Labour leadership. The victory has intensified internal party pressure on Starmer, who faces declining popularity and calls for his resignation amid economic stagnation and policy controversies.
Quick Facts
Who
Andy Burnham
What
by-election victory
When
June 18, 2026
Where
Makerfield, northwest England
- by-election victory
- leadership challenge preparation
- Labour Party internal conflict
- calls for Starmer's resignation
- pledge to change politics
Andy Burnham, the Labour candidate and Mayor of Greater Manchester, won the Makerfield by-election on June 18, 2026, securing nearly 55% of the vote and defeating Reform UK's Rob Kenyon by over 9,000 votes. The victory positions Burnham as the leading contender to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for leadership of the Labour Party and the country. Turnout was moderate among the approximately 75,000 eligible voters, with 45,510 votes cast across more than a dozen candidates.
In his victory speech, Burnham declared that "politics isn't working" and that the result "could, just could, be the turning point" for the nation. He pledged to bring his signature "Manchesterism"—a focus on regional regeneration and local empowerment—to national politics, vowing that "the name Makerfield is forever synonymous with bringing about the change this country needs." Burnham urged Labour to seize a "final chance to change" and rebuild voter trust, warning against the "divided, dark politics" seen in the United States.
Starmer, who led Labour to a landslide general election win in July 2024, has seen his popularity plummet amid stalled economic growth, struggling public services, and a series of political missteps, including the controversial appointment of Peter Mandelson as UK ambassador to the United States. A poor performance in local elections in May 2026 sparked calls for his resignation from scores of Labour lawmakers. Wes Streeting resigned as health secretary in May, and former Makerfield MP Josh Simons triggered the by-election to allow Burnham to return to Parliament.
Starmer has insisted he will fight any leadership challenge, stating at the G7 summit, "I'm not going to walk away from that" mandate. He suggested he could offer Burnham a Cabinet role, but Burnham's allies have indicated he is not interested in a subordinate position. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said the two must "have a conversation about what comes next," while Labour MP Louise Haigh, a Burnham ally, urged Starmer to "consider an orderly and managed transition." Under Labour rules, a challenger needs the backing of 81 Labour MPs to force a contest.
The by-election also highlighted the growing threat from Reform UK, which has gained ground in post-industrial northern England. Reform leader Nigel Farage expressed disappointment with the result, but Burnham's decisive win has revived Labour hopes of countering the party's rise.
Why This Matters
This by-election result reshapes UK Labour leadership dynamics: Burnham’s decisive win gives him a parliamentary platform to challenge Starmer, potentially triggering a leadership contest within months. For investors and policy watchers, it signals increased uncertainty over UK economic direction—Burnham’s “Manchesterism” agenda of regional regeneration could shift national policy if he becomes leader. The outcome also highlights Reform UK’s growing threat in post-industrial seats, which may affect electoral strategy and government stability.
Timeline & Sources
Jul 1, 2024
WireLabour wins general election under Starmer
May 1, 2026
WirePoor local election results spark calls for Starmer's resignation
May 1, 2026
WireWes Streeting resigns as health secretary
Jun 18, 2026
WireMakerfield by-election campaign concludes; international media coverage intensifies
Jun 18, 2026
WireMakerfield by-election held
Jun 19, 2026
WireMakerfield by-election voting day (Thursday)
Jun 19, 2026
WireSenior Labour figures call for Starmer to step down; Starmer insists he will 'fight if there's a challenge'
Jun 19, 2026
WireAndy Burnham wins Makerfield by-election with 54.9% of votes; becomes leading contender to challenge Starmer
Jun 19, 2026
WireBurnham declared winner with 55% of vote
Jun 19, 2026
WireStarmer congratulates Burnham, reiterates intent to fight challenge
Jun 20, 2026
WireElection results expected early Friday