Key facts
- Andy Burnham's campaign for the Makerfield seat is reportedly gaining significant traction.
- Current polling suggests Burnham could win the seat, challenging initial assessments of it being unwinnable.
- Labour's strategy emphasizes Burnham's personal brand over the party, targeting 13,000 undecided voters.
- Extensive canvassing efforts involve 450 volunteers and multiple door-knocks per household.
- Reform UK and Restore are also campaigning, with Restore potentially splitting the right-wing vote.
- Key issues discussed by voters include immigration, tax, transport, flooding, and housing.
Andy Burnham's campaign for the Makerfield seat is reportedly gaining considerable momentum ahead of a crucial byelection, with national political figures like Keir Starmer facing challenges. Burnham's campaign in Makerfield has attracted substantial support, with numerous MPs actively participating in doorstep canvassing. Initial advice suggested the seat was unwinnable, but current polling suggests Burnham could prove his concept of being the only Labour politician capable of defeating Reform UK.
Burnham's campaign is employing a strategy of emphasizing his personal brand over the Labour party, using merchandise like beer mats with his image and slogan. They are targeting a significant percentage of undecided voters, with strategists noting a narrowing gap between Labour and Reform UK. Extensive canvassing efforts are underway, with activists aiming to reach every household multiple times.
Residents are engaging with canvassers on a range of national and local issues, including immigration, tax, transport, flooding, and housing. While some are skeptical of Burnham's leadership ambitions, others see it as a positive attribute. The campaign is notable for its lack of attack literature against opposing parties, instead focusing on a message of change and hope.
The campaign is managed by a team of influential female operators, including Louise Haigh and Anneliese Midgley. There is a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation among volunteers and MPs, with some already discussing Burnham's potential return to Westminster and a challenge for party leadership.
Reform UK and Restore are also active in Makerfield. Reform UK has established a strong visual presence, while Restore, led by Robert Kenyon, is also making inroads, with some voters drawn to Kenyon's views on animal welfare and his more radical policies on remigration and the death penalty. The area has a history of significant far-right voting.
Despite the potential for a split on the right, which could aid Burnham's victory, some MPs express concern that such a win might undermine his narrative of broad appeal. However, the immediate focus remains on maximizing Burnham's visibility among undecided voters in the final week before the election.