Key facts
- Voters in the UK constituency of Makerfield are participating in a special election.
- The by-election could determine the future of Labour leader Keir Starmer.
- Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, is the leading candidate.
- Andy Burnham is seen as a potential successor to Keir Starmer.
- The election is viewed as a test of Keir Starmer's leadership.
A special election in the UK constituency of Makerfield presents a potential turning point for Labour leader Keir Starmer. The outcome of this vote is widely seen as a referendum on Starmer's leadership, with significant implications for his future at the helm of the Labour party. Andy Burnham, the current Mayor of Greater Manchester, is identified as the leading candidate in this electoral contest. Burnham is frequently discussed as a potential successor to Starmer, adding another layer of significance to the by-election results. The results are expected to offer insights into the Labour party's broader public support and the internal dynamics surrounding Starmer's leadership. The special election is a critical event for the Labour party as it navigates its current political landscape and considers future leadership possibilities.