Andy Burnham’s aspiration to lead the Labour Party has been an open secret. Referred to as the “King of the North,” Burnham has previously vied for the party leadership in 2010 and 2015. Despite hinting at an uncertain future late last year, speculation has been rife since last summer that the Greater Manchester Mayor is eyeing a return to Westminster.
The possibility of Burnham challenging the Prime Minister was highlighted by some MPs ahead of Labour’s conference, causing a stir and drawing ire from Downing Street. However, Burnham’s lack of MP status has been a significant obstacle to his serious consideration as a potential contender.
The idea of a secret arrangement for Burnham to contest Gorton and Denton, a seat comfortably won by suspended Labour MP Andrew Gwynne in the 2024 election, was dismissed by Gwynne himself. Yet, with Gwynne now announcing his resignation following suspension over offensive messages, a by-election is on the horizon, giving Burnham a tough decision to make.
The National Executive Committee (NEC) of Labour, which includes Starmer loyalists, will play a crucial role in selecting a candidate for the by-election. Any attempt by Burnham to stand could face resistance within the party, potentially leading to internal discord.
Amid a decline in Labour’s popularity in national polls, winning the by-election will be no easy task for any candidate. Opposition parties, including Reform UK, are gearing up for a fierce battle in Gorton and Denton, with promises to challenge Labour’s stronghold.
The charismatic Green Party leader Zack Polanski may also enter the race, aiming to increase Green representation in Parliament and bring a message of hope to politics. As Burnham contemplates his next move, the road ahead is fraught with challenges and uncertainties.