The battleground of Makerfield has never seen anything like it: a Labour campaign that's mobilised up to 3,000 activists in the constituency ahead of Thursday's by-election. Cabinet ministers and MPs are flooding in from all over the country, sparking concerns among organisers that the sheer volume could alienate local voters. The scale of this operation is unprecedented, with plans to deploy hundreds of volunteers to polling stations and bus stops – but will it pay off for Labour or backfire?
The campaign's strategy aims to limit doorstep interactions, which some fear have become too frequent in previous by-elections. MPs involved in the campaign have expressed surprise at the limited opportunities available for activists beyond leafleting, with estimates suggesting each door has been visited at least six times due to an oversupply of volunteers. To manage this influx, Burnham's team has set up three additional campaign centres, allowing for comprehensive coverage and a presence at every polling station.
Critics argue that the Labour Party is prioritising symbolism over substance in Makerfield, as polls consistently show Andy Burnham holding a clear lead over Reform UK's Robert Kenyon. However, some MPs who have visited the area recently suggest the contest remains tighter than polling indicates. The performance of Rupert Lowe's Restore party could also prove crucial, potentially securing up to 10% of the vote and altering the dynamics of the contest.
Labour leader Keir Starmer has not campaigned in Makerfield despite an earlier promise to do so, leading some to question his commitment to this key battleground. However, prominent Cabinet ministers such as David Lammy, Bridget Phillipson, and Jonathan Reynolds have made appearances, alongside former Health Secretary Wes Streeting – all part of a high-stakes battle for Labour's future.