Labour's Burnham Could Have Swung Byelection Victory, Deputy Leader Claims
Labour deputy leader says Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham would have likely won the Gorton and Denton byelection, calls for party to utilize his popularity.
Andy Burnham, the popular Greater Manchester mayor, could have helped Labour secure victory in the recent Gorton and Denton byelection, according to the party's deputy leader Lucy Powell. In the wake of Labour's third-place finish, with the Greens winning and Reform UK coming in second, Powell asserted that Burnham would have "probably" won the vote if he had been involved.
Powell's comments underscore the growing recognition within Labour that Burnham's regional influence and appeal could be a valuable asset for the party as it seeks to reconnect with voters and rebuild its electoral fortunes. The Greater Manchester mayor has cultivated a distinct political brand, championing causes such as regional devolution and improved public transport, which have resonated with many constituents.
"Andy Burnham would probably have won that byelection," Powell told reporters, highlighting the mayor's strong popularity and name recognition in the Greater Manchester area. "We need to make much more use of him and his profile and his brand."
The Gorton and Denton defeat was a blow for Labour, which had long considered the seat a stronghold. The Green Party's victory, in particular, has raised concerns within the party about its ability to appeal to younger, environmentally-conscious voters who may be drawn to the Greens' more progressive platform.
Powell's comments suggest that Labour's leadership is grappling with how to best leverage Burnham's regional profile to bolster the party's fortunes nationally. The mayor has repeatedly deflected questions about his national ambitions, but his growing popularity has fueled speculation that he could play a more prominent role in the party's future.
"Andy Burnham has a really strong brand and profile, and I think we need to make much more use of him," Powell said. "He connects with people in a way that I think our national politicians sometimes struggle to do."
As Labour seeks to rebound from its Gorton and Denton setback, the party's willingness to elevate and empower regional figures like Burnham could be a crucial factor in its efforts to rebuild trust and win back voters. Powell's comments suggest that the party is keenly aware of the potential benefits of tapping into Burnham's popularity and influence, even if it remains uncertain how best to do so.
Source: The Guardian
