Labour faces a potential upset in the upcoming Makerfield by-election, with Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon, a local plumber and former soldier, emerging as a strong contender against Andy Burnham. Kenyon, who also works in the NHS, previously ran against Labour MP Josh Simons in the 2024 general election, securing second place ahead of the Conservatives. Earlier this month, he won a seat on Wigan Council as Reform made significant gains in the area during local elections.
Kenyon's Working-Class Appeal
In his 2024 manifesto, Kenyon emphasised his working-class background, stating he has "done many a hard day's work in my life" and understands struggle from growing up in a single-parent household on free school dinners. Last week, he posted an Instagram photo of himself in a pub with a pint, quipping: "You'll not see Burnham in Wetherspoons on a Friday night in Wigan."
Labour's Previous Embarrassment
In February, Labour suffered a similar defeat when Green Party plumber Hannah Spencer won the previously safe Gorton and Denton by-election in Greater Manchester. Reform is expected to announce its Makerfield candidate as soon as tomorrow, with Labour's campaign in disarray amid internal divisions over Brexit.
Reform leader Nigel Farage has indicated his party will focus on immigration and Brexit, branding the prospective Labour candidate "open borders Burnham" over the weekend. The by-election, likely set for June 18, is seen as a potential springboard for Burnham's leadership ambitions, but allies fear it could backfire.
Labour Infighting Intensifies
Labour's internal strife deepened as Burnham's allies accused rivals of sabotage after leadership contender Wes Streeting voiced support for rejoining the EU. This highlighted Burnham's own strong views on reversing Brexit, which are considered unhelpful in the Eurosceptic seat of Makerfield. Deputy PM David Lammy described the infighting as a "spectacular own goal" and warned that a general election could be inevitable if the party does not unite.
Backbencher Jonathan Hinder called the call to unwind Brexit a "staggering level of out of touch." One minister told the Daily Mail: "Day one has gone well but it'll be downhill from here on in." Despite Labour's efforts, polls consistently show Reform on track to win, with Burnham's chances of success estimated at worse than 50-50.
