Labour candidate Andy Burnham leads Reform candidate Robert Kenyon by three percentage points [1] in a recent poll for the Makerfield by-election.
The result reflects a volatile political climate in Greater Manchester, where voters are weighing traditional party loyalty against a growing desire for systemic change. The outcome could signal a shift in how working-class constituencies view the current political establishment.
With less than one week remaining until the vote [2], candidates are campaigning in a constituency marked by deep frustration. Voters have cited concerns over immigration and antisocial behavior as primary drivers for their dissatisfaction with the status quo.
While Burnham maintains a slim lead, the electorate remains divided. Some residents have expressed a preference for dismantling the current system rather than supporting the Labour candidate. Conversely, some voters who previously supported Reform have indicated they may change their minds to back Burnham.
In addition to the main contenders, the Restore Britain party is also vying for support as voters seek alternatives to the traditional political options. The competition highlights a broader trend of political alienation within the region.
Local sentiment suggests that the by-election is less about a single candidate and more about a general anger toward the political system. The narrow margin in the latest polling indicates a highly competitive race that will likely be decided by a small number of undecided voters.
“Andy Burnham leads Reform candidate Robert Kenyon by three percentage points in the latest constituency poll.”
The narrow polling gap in Makerfield underscores a significant vulnerability for the Labour Party in its traditional strongholds. The rise of candidates from Reform and Restore Britain suggests that local grievances regarding immigration and public order are outweighing national party platforms, potentially creating a blueprint for opposition parties to challenge Labour in similar constituencies.
