Burnham Endorses Labour Candidate After Being Blocked From By-Election
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has publicly backed Labour's newly announced candidate for the Gorton and Denton by-election, following his own unsuccessful attempt to stand in the contest. The Labour Party's National Executive Committee voted to block Burnham's request to become a candidate, despite his formal application last weekend.
Mayor's Support for Replacement Candidate
In a social media post, Burnham congratulated Angeliki Stogia, a city councillor for Whalley Range, expressing confidence in her abilities. "I will be there for you whenever you need me," Burnham wrote, adding that Stogia would do "a great job" representing the constituency.
The by-election was triggered by the resignation of former MP Andrew Gwynne, who cited health reasons for stepping down. Stogia was officially announced as Labour's candidate during a Saturday afternoon event, where she described herself as a "proud Mancunian woman" committed to representing Manchester's united community.
Leadership Dynamics and Political Implications
Burnham's potential return to Westminster had been viewed by many political observers as a possible challenge to Sir Keir Starmer's leadership. As mayor, Burnham required special approval to contest a different political election, which the NEC ultimately denied.
Prime Minister Starmer has defended the decision, arguing that allowing Burnham to run would have diverted party resources. During recent comments, Starmer framed the by-election as a contest between Labour and Reform UK, criticising what he called Reform's "politics of poisonous division."
Competitive By-Election Landscape
The east Manchester seat has been held by Labour since before the Second World War, but the political landscape has shifted significantly:
- Reform UK has selected GB News presenter and former academic Matt Goodwin as their candidate
- The Green Party is represented by councillor and plumber Hannah Spencer
- Local campaigner Jackie Pearcey will stand for the Liberal Democrats
Starmer highlighted Reform UK's association with far-right activist Tommy Robinson (real name Stephen Yaxley-Lennon), who has reportedly endorsed Goodwin's candidacy. A Reform UK spokesman responded that the party has been "consistently clear" that Robinson "isn't welcome in the party."
Historical Context and Current Challenges
Labour previously won the seat comfortably in 2024 with 18,555 votes, but Reform UK secured second place with 5,142 votes, narrowly beating the Greens who received 4,810 votes. This historical performance suggests a potentially competitive by-election despite Labour's traditional dominance in the area.
Starmer emphasised that Labour remains the "only contender" capable of delivering renewal and inclusive communities, positioning the party against what he described as Reform UK's "plastic patriotism." The prime minister did not confirm whether he would personally campaign in the constituency.
The by-election occurs against a backdrop of internal party dynamics and external political pressures, with multiple parties viewing the contest as an opportunity to make significant gains in a traditionally Labour stronghold.
