Makerfield by-election

Andy Burnham has won the Makerfield by-election, securing his return to the House of Commons. The election took place on Monday, June 22, 2026. Burnham, often referred to as the ‘King of the North’, was seen campaigning in Ashton-in-Makerfield prior to the vote. His victory is significant as it places him back in Westminster, potentially influencing national politics. While he has sought to distance himself from Prime Minister Starmer's policies, his return to Parliament means he may be aligned with or impacted by them. The by-election's outcome is noteworthy for bringing a prominent political figure back into the national legislative arena.