Makerfield By-Election 2026: The Makerfield by-election is an upcoming UK parliamentary contest widely expected to take place on June 18, 2026. It was triggered by the sudden resignation announcement of Labour MP Josh Simons.
He explicitly stepped down to clear a path for Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to return to Westminster and position himself for the Labour Party leadership.
Here's everything you need to know about the Makerfield By-Election, including the expected date, why it is happening, and more.
Makerfield By-Election 2026: Expected Date
The Makerfield By-Election 2026 is widely expected to take place on June 18, 2026.
Makerfield By-Election 2026: Why is it Happening?
The Makerfield By-Election was triggered by the sudden resignation announcement of sitting Labour MP Josh Simons.
Josh Simons explicitly stepped down to clear a path for Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to return to Westminster and position himself for the Labour Party leadership.
Makerfield By-Election 2026: Key Candidates
The key candidates in the Makerfield By-Election 2026 are:
Andy Burnham: As Burnham cannot challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership without being a Member of Parliament, this by-election is his route back to national politics. On 15 May 2026, Labour’s National Executive Committee (NEC) formally approved Burnham to enter the local candidate selection process. Burnham will retain his mayoral seat during the campaign and only step down if he wins the by-election.
The Reform UK: While Makerfield has historically been a safe Labour seat, polling experts warn Burnham faces a “formidable challenge”. During the May 2026 local elections, Reform UK swept every council ward within the Makerfield constituency, securing roughly 50% of the vote share compared to Labour’s 27%. Reform UK leaders Nigel Farage and Richard Tice have promised to “throw everything” at the campaign to defeat Burnham.
Other Parties: The Green Party has commenced its internal candidate selection, although prominent figures like former leader Caroline Lucas have publicly suggested standing aside to avoid splitting the anti-Reform vote.
However, the by-election follows an exceptionally turbulent week for Downing Street, highlighted by the resignation of Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who openly declared a loss of confidence in Keir Starmer. Both Streeting and Burnham are viewed as top contenders to succeed Starmer.
Makerfield By-Election 2026: Selection Timeline
While Burnham has been granted permission to run by Labour’s national leadership, he must still be formally chosen by local party members.
Applications Close: Monday, 18 May 2026
Selection Meeting: Thursday, 21 May 2026
Expected Election Date: Thursday, 18 June 2026
The Makerfield by-election is the most consequential UK political battle since the general election. It serves as a direct referendum on Keir Starmer’s leadership and a high-stakes gamble for Andy Burnham’s prime ministerial ambitions.
Disclaimer: The above information is based on the publicly available sources. The Sunday Guardian does not claim anything.