Andy Burnham, the former Mayor of Greater Manchester, won a special parliamentary election in Makerfield today, positioning him to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for leadership of the country.
Burnham secured 55% of the vote, defeating the far-right Reform UK party and signaling a shift in momentum away from the current government. Following the result, over 100 Labour lawmakers and several cabinet ministers have reportedly urged Starmer to set a timeline for his departure from Downing Street. Supporters of Burnham believe his "King of the North" appeal is necessary to prevent a total wipeout in the next general election.
Starmer has vowed to remain in office, but a high-stakes cabinet showdown is expected this weekend as Burnham prepares his rival team for power.
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