Andy Burnham will face Reform UK's Robert Kenyon in next month's crucial Makerfield byelection, a clash that could change the course of British politics for years to come. The contest for the seat just outside Wigan has been billed as a David versus Goliath battle by Reform leader Nigel Farage.
Candidates and Background
Reform UK is promoting Kenyon, a plumber and army reservist who contested the seat in the 2024 general election, as a local champion taking on a professional politician. Kenyon, however, faced immediate scrutiny over deleted social media posts that appeared to cast doubt on vaccine efficacy, interact with a Dutch far-right influencer, and praise Donald Trump. The Conservatives also questioned why his account had been suspended.
Burnham, the Greater Manchester mayor, was selected by Labour's national executive committee without a shortlist, despite other applicants. The byelection is expected on 18 June. Burnham has been open about his desire to return to Westminster to change Labour's direction, with a leadership bid against Keir Starmer widely assumed if he wins. He said he was humbled to be selected and promised to spotlight neglected areas like Makerfield.
Campaign Dynamics
In a video, Kenyon attacked Burnham for using Makerfield as a stepping stone, despite Burnham's family home being nearby. He criticized career politicians who are parachuted into seats they have never visited. Kenyon, born in Makerfield and a former NHS technician, came second in 2024, 5,399 votes behind Labour's Josh Simons, who stepped down to allow Burnham's return.
Archived X posts show Kenyon questioning vaccine effectiveness, responding to far-right influencer Eva Vlaardingerbroek after the Southport murders, and expressing support for Trump. Labour and Reform are favorites, but face challenges from Restore Britain, the far-right party set up by ex-Reform MP Rupert Lowe, which selected local businesswoman Rebecca Shepherd. The Greens are expected to pick a candidate on Wednesday.
Leadership Implications
Starmer chaired a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, the first since Wes Streeting resigned as health secretary. He later hailed the Renters' Rights Act, which gives new tenant protections. Starmer refused to set a timetable to quit, saying he hopes to lead Labour into the next election. Former Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford called for Starmer to set out a leadership change timetable, saying Burnham should replace him.
The outcome of this byelection could have profound implications for the future of British politics, potentially reshaping the leadership of the Labour Party and the direction of the country.
