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Burnham Wins Makerfield By-election, Starmer Resigns, Labour Trails Reform

6/27/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election, with tactical voting aimed at blocking Reform UK.
Sir Keir Starmer resigned on Monday, after which Labour’s voting intention rose to 23%, four points behind Reform’s 27%.
A BMG Research poll shows Labour would lead Reform by one point in a hypothetical Burnham-led election, though the boost is wafer-thin.
The poll found 41% rate Burnham more competent than Reform leader Nigel Farage, who received 25%.

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Story summary

Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election, with tactical voting aimed at blocking Reform UK.
Sir Keir Starmer resigned on Monday, after which Labour’s voting intention rose to 23%, four points behind Reform’s 27%.
A BMG Research poll shows Labour would lead Reform by one point in a hypothetical Burnham-led election, though the boost is wafer-thin.
The poll found 41% rate Burnham more competent than Reform leader Nigel Farage, who received 25%.