A by-election for the Makerfield parliamentary seat near Manchester is set for June 18, 2026, with Andy Burnham as a candidate [1, 2]. Burnham, the current Mayor of Greater Manchester, is aiming to win the seat to formally launch a leadership challenge to Labour Party leader and Prime Minister Keir Starmer [1, 2].
The contest is seen as a crucial step for Burnham’s bid and could alter the internal dynamics within the Labour Party [1, 2]. Burnham faces competition from the Reform UK party, led by Nigel Farage, which is expected to provide significant opposition in the race [1].
Keir Starmer’s leadership has faced increased scrutiny following Labour’s poor performance in the May 2026 local elections, prompting some calls for his resignation [1]. Adding to the leadership pressure, former health minister Wes Streeting recently quit and is considered another potential challenger, citing loss of confidence in Starmer [1].
The Makerfield by-election on June 18 is the next key event in this leadership contest and will determine whether Burnham can gain the parliamentary seat needed to proceed with his challenge [1, 2].
