By Charlie Simpson | June 19, 2026
Makerfield, England — Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham secured a decisive victory in Thursday’s by-election, winning the parliamentary seat with 24,927 votes and a majority of more than 9,000. The result hands him a platform in Westminster and intensifies speculation about a future challenge to Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Burnham, long seen as one of Labour’s most popular figures, took 54.8% of the vote in the traditional Labour stronghold. Reform UK’s Robert Kenyon finished second on 34.5% with 15,696 votes, while Restore Britain’s Rebecca Shepherd placed third with 6.8%. The Conservatives trailed further back, and turnout rose to around 58.75%.
The by-election was triggered after local MP Josh Simons stepped down in May, clearing the path for Burnham to return to Parliament after years focused on his mayoral role. Campaigning on themes of fairness for overlooked communities in the North, Burnham framed the contest as a chance to reshape politics.
His win comes amid ongoing questions about Starmer’s leadership following Labour’s bruising local election results. Burnham has stopped short of openly declaring a bid but has signaled he’d be ready if a contest emerges. The victory gives him a stronger footing among MPs and the party grassroots.
Reform made gains in the area during recent locals but couldn’t overcome Labour’s deep roots here. The right-wing vote also split with Restore’s entry, though Burnham’s team had expressed quiet confidence in the closing days.
Burnham is expected to juggle his new Westminster duties with his mayoral responsibilities in the short term, though winning the seat means Greater Manchester will soon need a new mayor.
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