Guardian UK Politics
Polls close in Makerfield byelection as Andy Burnham eyes No 10
Andy Burnham is expected to hold Makerfield for Labour in a closely watched byelection, but the real story is what comes next. The Greater Manchester mayor has made little secret of his leadership ambitions, with the result likely to fuel speculation about a challenge to Keir Starmer. A strong performance will sharpen the question of whether Labour's future lies with its current leader or a more populist alternative waiting in the wings.
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Scottish Conservatives win first Westminster by-election in more than 50 years
The Scottish Conservatives claimed their first Westminster by-election victory in over half a century, capturing Aberdeen South in a result that signals a potential shift in Scotland's political landscape. The SNP held its ground elsewhere, winning in Arbroath and Broughty Ferry. The result will be closely watched as an early indicator of Conservative fortunes north of the border ahead of the next general election.
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Andy Burnham wins huge majority in Makerfield byelection, paving way for Starmer leadership challenge
Andy Burnham has secured a commanding victory in the Makerfield byelection, beating Reform UK by over 9,000 votes and positioning himself as a credible challenger to Keir Starmer's leadership. The Greater Manchester mayor framed the result as Labour's "final chance to change," signalling discontent with the government's current direction. The win sets the stage for what could become a significant internal battle within the Labour Party.
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Scottish Conservatives win Aberdeen South, ousting SNP
The Scottish Conservatives dealt the SNP a significant blow, seizing Aberdeen South in a by-election with nearly 50% of the vote and a 14.69% swing. The result signals deep voter anger over the Peter Murrell scandal, in which the former SNP chief executive pleaded guilty to stealing £400,000 in party funds. Once considered a safe SNP stronghold, the seat's loss raises serious questions about the party's ability to hold its electoral base in Scotland.
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Andy Burnham wins Makerfield byelection, paving way for Starmer leadership challenge
Andy Burnham has secured a commanding victory in the Makerfield byelection, returning to Westminster for the first time in nine years and immediately fuelling speculation about a challenge to Keir Starmer's leadership. The Greater Manchester mayor saw off competition from Reform UK and the insurgent Restore Britain party, signalling his continued electoral appeal. The result sets the stage for a significant internal reckoning within the Labour Party.
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