Politics

UK: Burnham Wins Makerfield By-Election

Is this a seismic triumph for the left or a dangerous warning sign for Britain?

Published 3 days ago

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Above: Andy Burnham addresses supporters outside the Labour party campaign office in Ashton in Makerfield on June 18, 2026. Image credit: Oli Scarff/AFP/Getty Images

The Spin

Left narrative

This seismic result shows that, when aligned with working class values, Labour can defeat Reform's campaign of hate and division. Whilst only time will tell if Burnham's will really stand up for the British people and deliver meaningful change once returned to Manchester, one thing is abundantly clear: the writing is on the wall for the Starmer premiership.

Guardian

Zack Polanski on X The New Statesman

Pro-government narrative

Burnham's victory is a welcome sign for Labour, but this does not mean the U.K. should be plunged into back chaos once again with another leadership battle. Starmer won convincingly in 2024 and holds the democratic mandate — Burnham deserves a seat at the table but his own personal ambition should not come at the expense of the country's stability.

Keir Starmer on Youtube Daily Mirror

Sky News on Youtube

Right narrative

Labour's Makerfield victory is the exception rather than the rule, with Burnham's unique presence in the North East combined with ideological infighting between Reform and Restore pathing the way for Manchester Mayor's return to Parliament. Labour's challenges are far deeper than the vision of a single leader, and this result is unlikely the turn the tide before the next general election.

Spiked

Rupert Lowe on X Spectator (UK)