Andy Burnham’s aspirations to lead the Labour Party have been widely known. Referred to as the “King of the North,” Burnham has previously contested leadership in 2010 and 2015. Last year, he cryptically mentioned uncertainty about the future.
Speculation has been rife since last summer that the Greater Manchester Mayor is eyeing a return to Westminster. Burnham hinted at MPs encouraging him to challenge the Prime Minister before the Labour conference, causing a stir in political circles.
Despite being a formidable candidate, Burnham’s non-MP status has been a hindrance to his ambition. There were talks of a behind-the-scenes agreement for him to take over a seat, but the idea was dismissed by suspended Labour MP Andrew Gwynne.
Gwynne’s recent decision to resign, following suspension over inappropriate messages, has opened the door for a by-election. This move puts Burnham in a position to decide whether to pursue a parliamentary seat, potentially relinquishing his mayoral position.
The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Labour Party will select a candidate for the upcoming Greater Manchester by-election. The presence of Starmer loyalists on the NEC could pose a barrier to Burnham’s candidacy.
If Burnham overcomes internal challenges, he will face tough competition in the by-election amid a decline in Labour’s popularity nationwide. Other parties, including Reform UK and the Green Party, are gearing up for a fierce contest.
The charismatic Green Party figure Zack Polanski may also enter the race, emphasizing the party’s commitment to expanding its representation in Parliament. As Burnham contemplates his next move, the political landscape is set for an intriguing showdown.