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Andy Burnham Faces Perilous By-election Race in Makerfield

May 18, 2026

Summary

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham faces a challenging by-election race in Makerfield, with allies suggesting it will be perilous. Reform UK, which won over 50% of the local election vote, is expected to focus heavily on immigration and Brexit.

How coverage differs

Coverage of Andy Burnham Faces Perilous By-election Race in Makerfield varies across outlets, with differing emphasis on key aspects of the story.

  • Left: Reform UK's populist agenda imperils Labour's by-election prospects Left-leaning outlets report that Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham faces a 'perilous' by-election race in Makerfield, citing concerns from his allies. This coverage highlights the challenging political landscape for Burnham.
  • Right: The perils of Burnham's leadership: a premium Britain cannot afford Right-leaning outlets launch sharp attacks on Andy Burnham, labeling him an 'overrated, scheming, opportunistic charlatan' and suggesting he makes Starmer look like a 'political giant.' They also warn of a potential 'Burnham Premium' if he were to become Prime Minister, focusing on his character and perceived negative economic impact.

Coverage by lane

Left

  • Andy Burnham faces perilous race to win Makerfield byelection, allies say

Right

  • Overrated, scheming, opportunistic charlatans! I never thought I'd say it, writes STEPHEN GLOVER, but Andy Burnham and Wes Streeting make Starmer look like a political giant
  • Britain will pay a 'Burnham Premium' if Greater Manchester Mayor becomes Prime Minister, Kemi says

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