Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Andy Burnham Wins Makerfield By-Election with 54% Vote

6/20/2026

39 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election, securing 54% of the vote.
His victory attracted former Reform and Green voters, expanding the contest into a wider call for northern power.
Turnout reached 58.7%, surpassing participation in the 2024 general election.
Labour volunteers knocked on doors up to seven times, contacting about 60% of voters.

History

Historical Context

Chancellor George Osborne introduced the Northern Powerhouse in 2014, aiming to shift growth from London to core northern cities. The 2016 Northern Powerhouse Partnership and the 2018 creation of Transport for the North institutionalised the agenda, while IPPR data show northern employment rose 7% by 2019, modestly outpacing the UK average.

1 of 2

Story summary

Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election, securing 54% of the vote.
His victory attracted former Reform and Green voters, expanding the contest into a wider call for northern power.
Turnout reached 58.7%, surpassing participation in the 2024 general election.
Labour volunteers knocked on doors up to seven times, contacting about 60% of voters.

1 / 2