Andy Burnham’s aspirations to lead the Labour Party have been widely known. Referred to as the “King of the North,” Burnham has previously entered leadership contests in 2010 and 2015. Last year, he ambiguously stated, “I don’t know what the future will hold.”
Speculation has been rife since last summer that the Mayor of Greater Manchester is eyeing a return to Westminster. Burnham hinted that some MPs had encouraged him to challenge the Prime Minister, causing a stir during Labour’s conference. However, his lack of MP status has been a major obstacle to his serious candidacy, despite rumors of a potential plan for him to contest a seat in Gorton and Denton.
Although Andrew Gwynne, the suspended Labour MP for Gorton and Denton, initially dismissed the idea of stepping down to make way for Burnham, he recently announced his resignation, setting the stage for a by-election. Burnham now faces a crucial decision, considering the hurdles that lie ahead if he chooses to run as an MP and relinquish his mayoral position.
The National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Labour Party will select a candidate for the by-election in Greater Manchester. Burnham may face opposition from supporters of Keir Starmer within the NEC. Some party members anticipate internal conflict if Burnham is allowed to stand, especially amid Labour’s declining popularity in national polls.
With opposition parties gearing up for the by-election, challenges await any candidate seeking to secure victory. Reform UK has pledged a vigorous campaign in Gorton and Denton, acknowledging the difficulty of defeating Labour but expressing determination to give it their best shot. Additionally, the Green Party’s Zack Polanski, though not an MP, is considering entering the race, emphasizing the party’s commitment to expanding its presence in Parliament.
As Burnham contemplates his next move, the road to potentially becoming an MP presents numerous obstacles that he must carefully navigate.