Political scenario is rapidly changing in the U.K as Makerfield, a little-known political district in northwest England, has been thrust into the spotlight in the UK ahead of a by-election dubbed one of the most consequential in British history. The June 18 vote could prompt embattled Prime Minister Keir Starmer's downfall, as the main potential rival to replace him bids to win a parliamentary seat and pave the way for a leadership challenge. Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham, a veteran figure on Labour's left, has stopped short of formally announcing his intention to oust Starmer. But the 56-year-old is widely expected to trigger a contest to become Labour leader -- which would mean also becoming prime minister -- if he is made an MP.
"A vote for me in this by-election campaign is a vote to change Labour," he said Friday, officially launching his campaign in the constituency, which lies between Manchester and Liverpool.
