"The most recent poll put him just a couple of points ahead of Reform. MPs from across the north-west and from Burnham's soft-left wing descended on the seat this weekend before the mayor of Greater Manchester has even been formally selected to run. The reality of what is at stake is beginning to sink in. I cannot tell you I'm not worried, said one MP who had spent a day over the weekend in the constituency. This is going to be really tight."
Labour MPs campaigning in Hindley Green and Winstanley describe the Makerfield byelection as existential. The contest is seen as the closest the UK may come to a presidential-style election run through one constituency, with potential implications for Labour’s future. Andy Burnham’s candidacy is framed as a proof of concept for a new direction and leadership capable of stopping Nigel Farage and an impending Reform government. If Burnham cannot win a Labour-held seat, Labour MPs may have to confront whether they can do anything to prevent Reform taking power. Reform performed strongly in local elections, and polls suggest Labour’s chances are slim despite a previous majority.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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