Andy Burnham experienced a notable increase in popularity ratings in July, according to new polling by City AM/Freshwater Strategy. His approval ratings jumped by 12 points from a net score of zero, making him the most positively received figure in British politics.
Conversely, Nigel Farage's ratings fell by an equivalent amount, reaching -20. This shift comes as Farage has faced increased scrutiny over his financial dealings.
Despite the changes in personal ratings, party polling has not seen as dramatic a swing. Reform UK maintains its position as the most popular party with 26% of the voter share, a decrease of three points over the month. Labour and the Conservatives each stand at 23%.
Dr Michal Turner, a Freshwater Strategy polling expert, noted a "clear divergence" in leading indicators, observing that Burnham's popularity boost has not yet translated into a wider gain for the Labour party.