A fresh opinion poll from More in Common indicates that Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham would defeat Reform UK leader Nigel Farage by a margin of 14 percentage points in a direct electoral contest. This performance is approximately 10 points stronger than that of current Labour leader Keir Starmer, according to the same survey.
Burnham's Strong Showing Against Farage
The poll findings are likely to strengthen arguments from Burnham's supporters that he would be a more effective leader against Reform UK than Starmer. To contend for the Labour leadership, Burnham must first secure victory in the upcoming Makerfield by-election, a pro-Brexit constituency that Reform UK has identified as a key target.
Challenges Ahead for Burnham
However, More in Common cautioned that an internal Labour dispute over the possibility of rejoining the European Union could undermine Burnham's chances in Makerfield, despite his personal popularity. The constituency, which voted heavily for Brexit in 2016, presents a complex electoral landscape.
Burnham's team remains optimistic that his track record as mayor and his appeal to working-class voters can overcome these hurdles. The by-election is seen as a crucial test of whether Burnham can translate his regional popularity into national political momentum.
