Andy Burnham's election to parliament sets up bid to oust UK PM Starmer

Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham has successfully won a parliamentary seat in Makerfield, northwest England, clearing a potential path to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for leadership of the Labour Party. The victory is being described as potentially the most consequential local election result in over six decades.

Burnham, often referred to as the “King of the North,” secured a decisive win with 24,927 votes. The candidate from Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party came in second with 15,696 votes. This electoral success now positions Burnham to initiate or participate in a contest to replace Starmer, who has been facing declining popularity ratings.

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We must hear it, we must act upon it, and we must get it right. There will be no second chance.

In his victory speech, Burnham emphasized the significance of the outcome, calling it a potential "turning point" for British politics. He urged his party to heed the message and change direction, stating, "We must hear it, we must act upon it, and we must get it right. There will be no second chance."

Burnham, a career politician known for his support of nationalizing key public services and criticism of neoliberal economics, has expressed his intention to seek the leadership. Polls suggest he is Labour's most popular politician among party members. Meanwhile, Starmer, facing criticism over scandals and policy U-turns, has vowed to contest any leadership challenge, warning of potential "chaos" within the party.

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It is over.