BONUS - Makerfield By-Election Reaction

It’s probably not being dramatic to suggest that the 2026 Makerfield by-election could go down as the most influential Westminster by-election of all time.As Labour’s woes in government continue, sitting 8 points behind Reform in the polls, their candidate Andy Burnham made his intentions clear in intending to run to be the next leader (and Prime Minister). With his commitment to changing the political culture in the country, including electoral reform and a return to public ownership of water, Burnham's victory could bring about a new era of progressive politics in Britain (we’re not biased, honest).So, obviously, we had to put a star-studded lineup together to analyse the result.Joining Compass Director Neal Lawson to figure out just what has happened is:Kerry Postlewhite, Chair of Mainstream Labour’s Interim CouncilWill Stronge, Chief Executive of AutonomyAva-Santina Evans, Editor of PoliticsJOEAnouschka Rajah, Research and Analysis Manager at MoreinCommon UKSupport the showEnjoyed the podcast and want to be a live audience member at our next episode? Want to have the chance in raising questions to the panelist?Support our work and be a part of the Compass community. Become a member!You can find us on Twitter at @CompassOffice.