POLL: Would Labour win the next general election with Andy Burnham as PM? | Politics | News
Andy Burnham’s anticipated return to parliament has sparked fresh questions about whether Labor will perform better under his leadership than Sir Keir Starmer. The mayor of Greater Manchester is a step closer to a return to the Commons after Labour’s National Executive Committee approved his bid to stand in the upcoming Makerfield by-election.
Mr Burnham is expected to mount a leadership challenge if elected, as pressure continues to mount on Sir Keir following Labour’s disastrous local election results and falling poll results. The by-election itself is shaping up to be a major political test. Although Makerfield has traditionally been a safe Labor seat, Nigel Farage’s Reform UK made huge gains in the constituency during the last local elections, winning all council wards and taking around half the vote.
What are you thinking? Will Labor win the next general election with Andy Burnham as Prime Minister? Vote in our poll and join the discussion in the comments.
But Labor insiders believe Mr Burnham’s personal popularity in the North West could be decisive. Polling by Ipsos gave him a much higher net positive rating than Labor itself or any of the main party leaders.
Survation forecasts also suggested Labor would be more likely to keep Makerfield as a candidate with Mr Burnham than without him.
The growing speculation comes amid deepening uncertainty over Sir Keir’s future following Wes Streeting’s resignation and growing unrest among Labor MPs.
Supporters argue Mr Burnham’s northern roots, media profile and outspoken style could reconnect Labor with disillusioned voters drifting towards a Reformation UK. But critics warn a bitter leadership battle could further destabilize the Government.
With Labor increasingly divided over who will lead the party at the next election, debates over Mr Burnham’s future are growing more intense.
