Andy Burnham's recent by-election victory in Makerfield has highlighted a perceived weakness in Keir Starmer's national Labour brand, according to a peer. The win demonstrated that a candidate with strong local authority and credibility can bypass the national party's damaged image and mobilize voters, even in seats leaning towards Reform UK.
The outcome of the Makerfield by-election and the subsequent leadership change within the Labour Party could significantly impact the UK's political landscape and its approach to economic policy, particularly concerning public services and living standards.
Andy Burnham's recent by-election victory in Makerfield has been interpreted as a significant challenge to Keir Starmer's leadership of the Labour Party, according to reports. The win demonstrated that a candidate with strong local authority and credibility can bypass the national party's perceived damaged brand and mobilize voters, even in seats that have shown support for Reform UK.
Burnham secured nearly 25,000 votes, taking just under 55% of the vote and defeating Reform UK by more than 9,000 votes. The turnout was notably high for a by-election, even surpassing the constituency's turnout in the 2024 general election, indicating a well-contested and nationalized event rather than a quiet protest vote.
The result is seen as dangerous for Starmer because it suggests that Labour's damaged national brand can be overcome when a candidate possesses their own authority. The report argues that Starmer's weakness lies not just in unpopular decisions, but in a perceived lack of a living political base, having demobilized parts of Labour's coalition without creating a durable replacement. His appeal to competence and fiscal discipline may not build loyalty when living standards remain strained and public services fragile.
Burnham's campaign operated on a different register, presenting himself as rooted, practical, and outside the Westminster apparatus, focusing on 'state repair' rather than 'managerial patience'. His language of devolution, public service reconstruction, and northern institutional power offers voters something more concrete than Starmer's approach.
Following Keir Starmer's intention to step down, Andy Burnham assumed leadership in July. Since then, public mood regarding the government's direction has reportedly rebounded, with ministers believing they have a "second hearing with the public." Burnham claims he can deliver radical change despite economic challenges by focusing on short-term improvements and a long-term vision.
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