In a series of letters responding to recent reports, progressives are being urged to unite behind Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham in the upcoming Makerfield byelection. Writers argue that Burnham represents the best hope of preventing a Reform UK government, citing his broad popularity across demographics and his openness to a progressive alliance with the Greens.
Burnham's Popularity and Political Vision
Dr Craig Reeves of Birkbeck, University of London, notes that a recent poll shows Burnham enjoys more support among Labour members than Wes Streeting and Angela Rayner combined. Among the general public, Burnham is the most popular Labour politician by 11 points and the most popular politician of any stripe in the country. Reeves argues that Burnham is relatable, possesses political vision and pragmatism, and is the only Labour politician more popular than Nigel Farage, by six points. His popularity is robust across demographics, including among Reform and Green voters, though 18- to 24-year-olds prefer Zack Polanski.
Call for Green Support
Steve Williams from Godalming, Surrey, contends that while some Green members want to contest the seat vigorously, there is a strong case for offering conditional and critical support to Burnham. This support should be based on a commitment to introduce proportional representation, which Williams argues is essential for democratic legitimacy and to counter the rise of Reform UK. He acknowledges that tactical voting can be seen as dishonest but suggests that in Makerfield, it could be a tactical vote to end the scourge of tactical voting.
Scepticism Over Environmental Credentials
However, Rosalind Brown-Grant from Manchester expresses scepticism about Burnham's environmental record. She points to the abandonment of a clean air zone for Greater Manchester after millions were spent on signage and cameras, tokenistic cycle lane introductions under cycling tsar Chris Boardman, and the promotion of unsustainable skyscraper development in Manchester. She warns Labour left supporters and Green voters to be cautious in backing Burnham.
The letters reflect a broader debate among progressives about how to approach the Makerfield byelection, with some advocating unity behind Burnham to defeat Reform UK, while others remain wary of his policies and record.
