Why tactical voting could cost Reform the next election
The Makerfield by-election results indicate potential challenges for Nigel Farage's Reform UK party in the upcoming general election. Labour's Andy Burnham secured a significant majority, defeating Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon by over 9,000 votes. Left-leaning parties such as the Green Party and Liberal Democrats saw their vote shares drop significantly in this northwest seat, with the Greens receiving just 0.7% and the Lib Dems 0.4%. Political analysts suggest that cooperation among Labour, the Greens, and the Lib Dems could hinder Reform UK's chances of success. This strategy might involve informal agreements to avoid competing too intensely in each other's target constituencies, thereby encouraging tactical voting. Some left-wing activists hope that such collaboration could prevent a Reform UK victory. Additionally, recent polling suggests that left-wing voters are more inclined to engage in tactical voting compared to their right-wing counterparts.
A government minister has claimed that the public do not want a general election if Andy Burnham becomes the next prime minister, despite a recent poll suggesting nearly half of Britons believe such an election should be held once Burnham takes office. This assertion comes amid ongoing discussions within the Labour Party about whether Burnham, the current front-runner to succeed Sir Keir Starmer, should seek a mandate from the electorate before assuming leadership of the government. Burnham, the MP for Makerfield, has emerged as the leading contender to become the next Labour leader and prime minister following Starmer’s resignation. While some members of the party argue that Burnham should hold a general election to solidify his position, others caution against taking such a step, citing concerns about potential losses to opposition parties like Reform UK and the Greens. Housing minister Steve Reed emphasized that the public does not desire an early election, stating that the majority want the government to focus on implementing policies rather than holding a contest. Recent surveys indicate a divide in public opinion regarding the timing of a general election. According to a YouGov poll, 48 percent of respondents believe an election should be called once Burnham assumes the role of prime minister, compared to 35 percent who oppose the idea. Similarly, an Ipsos Mori survey found that only 13 percent of voters favor Burnham being installed as prime minister without an election, while 39 percent prefer a Labour leadership contest. These findings suggest that public sentiment remains split on whether Burnham should seek electoral validation before taking charge of the government. Within the Labour Party, opinions vary on whether Burnham should pursue a general election. Some MPs, particularly those with narrow majorities, urge caution, fearing that an early election could jeopardize their positions. Liverpool Riverside MP Kim Johnson, representing the hard-left faction of the party, warned that pursuing an election could lead to significant losses, while Rachael Maskell argued that there is no necessity for an election given the current political climate. Burnham’s allies, however, maintain that he is committed to the Labour Party’s manifesto and intends to implement changes, especially in the area of devolution, which involves transferring more powers to local communities. Reed noted that while Burnham may wish to modify certain aspects of the party’s platform, the fundamental principles—such as fiscal responsibility—would remain intact. When asked about the possibility of scrapping the triple lock on pensions, Reed stated that such discussions occur regularly in Parliament but stressed that Burnham is bound by the manifesto commitments made during the last election. Speculation continues about whether Burnham will choose to call a general election to capitalize on increased public support for Labour following his recent political resurgence. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has already called for an election, asserting that Burnham’s rise to power represents a shift away from the influence of the far-right. Meanwhile, Conservative figures like Shadow Housing Secretary Sir James Cleverly have indicated that the Tories are prepared to contest a general election if it occurs. The debate over whether Burnham should seek an early election reflects broader tensions within the Labour Party and the wider political landscape. With the next general election not due until 2029, some argue that there is no pressing need to hold an election soon, while others believe that doing so could strengthen Burnham’s position and provide clarity on the direction of the party. As these discussions continue, the outcome will depend on a combination of internal party dynamics, public opinion, and strategic considerations related to the upcoming political challenges.
How each side covered it
The same event, grouped by the political lean of the outlets covering it.
progressive
center
conservative
★
How each side covered it
Support independent, bias-aware news and unlock the social pulse, community voting, and your personalized For You feed.
In the Arbroath and Broughty Ferry by-election held on 18 June 2026, the SNP retained the seat, with the Conservatives coming in second and Reform UK finishing third. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage claimed his party 'came second' in the by-election, but this was incorrect. The article notes that Reform UK received 183 fewer votes than the Conservatives. Reform UK also finished third in the Aberdeen South by-election.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual corrections regarding Reform UK's placement in the by-elections without expressing overt ideological bias. It focuses on clarifying the actual results versus a claim made by Reform UK's leader. The tone remains neutral, emphasizing accuracy over advocacy.
Why these scores (Factual 100 · Objective 100): The article is highly factual and objective, correcting a claim made by Reform UK regarding their placement in the by-election. It presents the facts clearly without bias or speculation.
Daily MailIndependentCenterFactual 100Objective 10021 days ago
The article presents a poll asking whether Andy Burnham would make a better Prime Minister than Keir Starmer. It includes user comments but does not provide specific data or analysis regarding the poll results.
Bias read (Center): The article frames a question about leadership potential without taking a stance or providing biased information. It simply presents a poll question and allows reader comments, which are noted as unmoderated and not reflecting the publication's views.
Why these scores (Factual 100 · Objective 100): The article is unrelated to the RSA employment tribunal event, discussing a completely different topic about Andy Burnham and Keir Starmer. Since it doesn't address the event at all, both scores are 100 by default.
iNewsIndependentCenterFactual 100Objective 9021 days ago
Andy Burnham's recent by-election win positions him as a potential future prime minister. The article outlines Burnham's potential policies, including his stance on taxation, which aligns with Labour's 2024 manifesto commitment to avoid increasing major taxes. However, Burnham has previously suggested reconsidering the 50p top rate of income tax, indicating a shift in his position.
Bias read (Center): The article presents Burnham's policy positions without overtly favoring one side. It includes direct quotes from Burnham and references his past statements, providing a balanced overview of his potential approach as PM. There is no clear ideological slant in the framing or sourcing.
Why these scores (Factual 100 · Objective 90): The article clearly corrects a false claim by Reform UK and provides accurate details about the by-election results. It maintains a strictly factual and neutral tone.
The IndependentIndependentProgressiveFactual 95Objective 9021 days ago
Labour's Andy Burnham won a significant majority in the Makerfield by-election following the resignation of Josh Simons. Burnham described the result as a 'turning point' and emphasized the need for change in British politics. He expressed pride in the community's response and stated that the victory would serve as a foundation for future efforts.
Bias read (Progressive): The article presents Burnham's speech emphasizing change, hope, and criticism of current politics, which aligns with progressive themes. While the article itself is neutral in tone, the framing of Burnham's remarks and the emphasis on his call for transformation suggest a left-leaning perspective.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): The article provides a direct transcript of Andy Burnham's speech following his by-election victory, accurately reporting his statements and the context of his potential leadership challenge. The tone remains neutral and factual, presenting events without bias or editorializing.
BBC News (UK)State / PublicCenterFactual 95Objective 9021 days ago
Professor Sir John Curtice analyzes Andy Burnham's unexpected victory in the Makerfield by-election, noting that Labour's performance was significantly better than expected despite recent declines in national polling. He highlights Burnham's personal appeal and strategic campaigning as key factors in retaining Labour's support.
Bias read (Center): The article presents an analytical perspective from a respected academic without overtly favoring any political side. It focuses on statistical trends and electoral outcomes rather than making value judgments or using biased language. The framing remains neutral, emphasizing data and expert analysis
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): The article provides a detailed analysis of Burnham's victory, citing academic insights and polling data. It remains highly objective and factual throughout.
The EconomistIndependent🔒CenterFactual 95Objective 9021 days ago
The article reports two brief international updates: Keir Starmer's Labour Party candidate, Sir John Burnham, has won the Makerfield by-election in England, and US Vice President Kamala Harris's running mate, JD Vance, has postponed planned talks with Iran.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a neutral summary of two events without editorializing, biased language, or one-sided sourcing. It simply reports the outcomes of a UK by-election and a diplomatic postponement without taking a stance.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 90): The article accurately reports Burnham's by-election win alongside unrelated international news. It remains objective and factual in its reporting.
Novara MediaIndependentProgressiveFactual 95Objective 8521 days ago
Andy Burnham secured a decisive victory in the Makerfield byelection with 55% of the vote, defeating Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon by over 9,000 votes. The article highlights Burnham's strong support in the area and critiques Conservative and Labour figures who attempted to downplay the significance of his win.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames Burnham's victory as a 'huge personal mandate' and criticizes right-leaning figures like Mike Tapp and James Cleverly for attempting to minimize the result. It emphasizes Burnham's leadership potential and implies that the right is underestimating his influence, which aligns with左
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): The article accurately reports Burnham's victory and the reactions from various political figures. It emphasizes the significance of the result without overtly favoring any particular side, maintaining a balanced tone.
The IndependentIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 8521 days ago
The by-election in Makerfield saw Labour candidate Andy Burnham win by over 9,000 votes, positioning him as a potential challenger to Prime Minister Keir Starmer for leadership of the Labour Party. International media, including the Wall Street Journal, highlighted the significance of the result, describing it as a potential source of further political instability in the UK.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the event factually without overtly favoring any side. It reports on the election outcome and quotes international media reactions neutrally, without using loaded language or emphasizing one perspective over another.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): The article accurately summarizes international media coverage of Burnham's victory. It presents the global reaction neutrally, focusing on the factual outcomes and international perspectives without taking sides.
BBC News (UK)State / PublicCenterFactual 95Objective 8521 days ago
The article discusses Andy Burnham's potential challenge against Sir Keir Starmer for the Labour Party leadership following Burnham's victory in the Makerfield by-election. It outlines the circumstances surrounding Starmer's leadership, including poor performance in recent local elections and internal party pressure. The piece also touches on Starmer's controversial appointment of Lord Mandelson as UK ambassador to the US, which raised concerns due to Mandelson's ties to Jeffrey Epstein.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both sides of the situation—Burnham's potential challenge and Starmer's position—without overtly favoring one over the other. It provides factual background on the reasons for the leadership challenge and includes details on both supporters and critics of Starmer. There is no明显的
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): The article provides accurate information about the process of challenging Starmer's leadership. It remains neutral in tone, explaining the procedures and possible outcomes without bias.
The Guardian (UK)IndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 8521 days ago
Andy Burnham's decisive victory in the Makerfield byelection has raised questions about his potential challenge to Keir Starmer's leadership within the Labour Party. Burnham, who previously served as mayor of Greater Manchester, described the win as the 'most consequential byelection of our lives' and suggested it could mark a turning point for both the constituency and the country. The high voter turnout of 58.75%, the largest for a byelection in seven years, was seen as a positive sign for Labour. Burnham secured 55% of the vote, while Reform candidate Robert Kenyon received 35%, with the新兴的
Bias read (Center): The article presents the outcome of the byelection without overtly favoring any particular side. It reports on Burnham's victory and its implications for Labour leader Keir Starmer, as well as Reform's performance, without using biased language or selectively emphasizing one perspective over another
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): The article accurately reports the election results and Burnham's statements. It maintains a balanced approach by discussing the implications of the result without overtly favoring any political stance.
Daily MailIndependentConservativeFactual 95Objective 8521 days ago
Labour faces potential internal conflict following Andy Burnham's by-election win in Makerfield. Some MPs and leadership rivals are urging Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to resign, citing his unpopularity and the need to prevent a divisive leadership contest. However, Starmer remains defiant, insisting he has the mandate to continue leading the country and may resist calls for him to step down.
Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the situation as a 'civil war' within Labour, emphasizing the pressure on Starmer to resign and portraying his refusal as defiance against his peers. The tone suggests skepticism toward Starmer’s continued leadership, using terms like 'embattled Prime Minister,' 'unpopular PM in历史
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 85): The article accurately describes the by-election and its implications. While it mentions speculation about Starmer's future, it maintains a relatively neutral tone compared to others.
BBC News (UK)State / PublicCenterFactual 95Objective 8021 days ago
Following Andy Burnham's victory in the Makerfield by-election, Labour MPs are divided over the future of Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Some MPs criticize Starmer, claiming he has led the party into internal conflict, while others argue that Burnham is poised to become the next leader through an uncontested 'coronation' process. The article notes that Burnham could secure enough support from MPs to bypass a formal leadership contest, similar to Gordon Brown's ascension in 2007. However, Starmer has stated he will run in any leadership election, ensuring a vote by Labour members. This creates tension, as Starmer's position as both PM and Labour leader requires him to maintain parliamentary support.
Bias read (Center): The article presents multiple perspectives from Labour MPs, including criticism of Starmer and speculation about Burnham's potential leadership. It avoids overtly favoring one side, instead highlighting the internal divisions and possible outcomes without taking a stance on the validity of either.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 80): The article accurately summarizes the political reactions and provides balanced quotes from both sides. It maintains a neutral tone overall.
Middle East EyeIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 8021 days ago
Andy Burnham, the former mayor of Greater Manchester and current MP for Makerfield, has emerged as the frontrunner to become Britain's next prime minister following his decisive victory in the by-election. His win, with 55% of the vote, significantly outperformed Reform UK, which secured 35%. This result challenges Reform UK's narrative that a Farage-led government is inevitable. The outcome could influence Labour's overall support, though predictions vary regarding the extent of the impact.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual results of the election and quotes varying opinions from pollsters without overtly favoring any side. It does not use loaded language or selectively omit context, maintaining a balanced tone.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 80): The article provides a comprehensive overview of Burnham's potential impact and policies. It maintains a balanced approach while presenting factual information.
The IndependentIndependentProgressiveFactual 95Objective 8021 days ago
Andy Burnham won the Makerfield by-election with a significant majority, securing over half the vote and surpassing Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon by nearly 10,000 votes. This follows a shift in voter preferences observed during recent local elections where Nigel Farage's party gained ground. Burnham's victory marks his return to Parliament and positions him to potentially challenge Sir Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership. The results show Labour's increased vote share compared to previous years, while Reform UK also saw an increase in support, though some of its voters shifted to the新兴党
Bias read (Progressive): The article emphasizes Andy Burnham's 'historic' victory and frames it as a boost for Labour, highlighting the 'Burnham effect' and noting Labour's improved performance. It contrasts this with Reform UK's gains but presents them as less impactful, suggesting a positive outlook for Labour.
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 80): The article provides detailed statistics and context about the election results, accurately reporting Burnham's vote share and Reform UK's performance. It remains relatively neutral in tone, focusing on presenting the facts rather than taking sides.
The Guardian (UK)IndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 7521 days ago
Andy Burnham, the newly elected MP for Makerfield, secured a significant victory in the by-election with a majority of 9,231 votes, surpassing previous results and defeating Reform UK by over 20 percentage points. Despite the win, Burnham avoided direct confrontation with Labour leader Keir Starmer during his victory rally, choosing to leave quickly amid media questioning. His campaign manager, Louise Haigh, suggested that Starmer should consider stepping down due to the potential challenges of retaining leadership within the party. Burnham's strong performance has raised speculation about a possible leadership challenge against Starmer, though Burnham himself did not explicitly confirm this. Meanwhile, Starmer attempted to claim credit for the victory, emphasizing the defeat of Reform UK, but faced pressure from journalists suggesting his position as Labour leader is under threat.
Bias read (Center): The article provides balanced coverage of the event, presenting both Burnham's actions and Starmer's response without overtly favoring either side. It includes quotes from multiple figures, including Burnham's campaign manager and rival leadership contender Wes Streeting, offering a multi-perspectiv
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 75): The article provides detailed accounts of Burnham's actions and quotes from supporters. It maintains a relatively neutral tone but includes speculative elements about potential leadership challenges.
Daily MirrorIndependentCenterFactual 95Objective 7021 days ago
In the Makerfield by-election, Andy Burnham secured a significant victory for Labour, defeating Reform and other parties with a majority of over 9,000 votes. This result strengthens Burnham's position within Labour and provides him with leverage in any potential leadership challenge against Keir Starmer. Despite Reform's influence in recent local elections, Burnham's win demonstrates Labour's resilience, particularly in areas previously captured by Reform. The outcome offers Labour MPs a renewed sense of optimism amid low national polling for the government. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister remains confident in his general election mandate and is preparing for possible leadership challenges. Internal discussions are ongoing within Labour about readiness for a potential leadership race, though consensus on timing remains elusive.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the electoral results and their implications for Labour's internal dynamics and the broader political landscape without overtly favoring any particular side. It includes perspectives from both Burnham's camp and the current government, providing balanced context on the situation
Why these scores (Factual 95 · Objective 70): The article accurately reports the election results and Burnham's strategic implications. It presents the situation fairly but slightly emphasizes Burnham's potential over other factors.
Daily MailIndependentCenterFactual 92Objective 8517 days ago
Alan Johnson, a former Labour home secretary, has urged Andy Burnham to call for a general election to 'restore trust in politics,' warning against repeating Gordon Brown's 2007 mistake of taking over from Tony Blair without an election. Nigel Farage of Reform UK similarly called for an immediate election after Keir Starmer's resignation, arguing that Burnham would lack a proper mandate if he became prime minister. Burnham previously pushed for an election after the Conservatives faced leadership changes, but now faces similar pressure from critics. Farage criticized both major parties as a 'uni-party' and claimed Reform UK is prepared to offer radical alternatives.
Bias read (Center): The article presents multiple perspectives—Alan Johnson's call for an election, Nigel Farage's demand for an election, and Andy Burnham's position—without overtly favoring any side. The framing remains neutral, focusing on the arguments made by different figures rather than endorsing one viewpoint.
Why these scores (Factual 92 · Objective 85): The article offers detailed background on Andy Burnham's political career and his potential role as PM. It presents facts about his past experiences and current political situation without overt bias. The narrative is informative and balanced.
The Guardian (UK)IndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 9521 days ago
Andy Burnham, the former Greater Manchester mayor, secured a significant byelection victory in Makerfield, defeating Reform UK candidate Robert Kenyon with a 9,231-vote majority. This win marked a broader shift in voter behavior, as Burnham attracted support from across the political spectrum, including left, center, and even some right-wing voters. Labour captured 55% of the vote, while Reform UK received 35% and the hard-right Restore Britain got 7%. The Liberal Democrats and Greens saw their share of the vote drop dramatically, contributing to Burnham's success. Voters expressed concerns about the divisive nature of right-wing campaigns focused on immigration, which they felt alienated local communities. Some former Reform supporters, such as Joseph, a heavy goods driver, switched to Burnham, believing he offered the best chance to counter right-wing influence in the region.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced view of the electoral outcome, highlighting support from multiple political factions without overtly favoring any side. It includes perspectives from various voters, including those from the left, center, and right, and does not exhibit strong ideological framing or o
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 95): Neutral reporting on the by-election process with factual details about polling locations, procedures, and candidates. No subjective commentary, maintaining high objectivity.
The Guardian (UK)IndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8517 days ago
Bev Craig has been selected as Labour's candidate for the Greater Manchester mayoral election, set for 30 July, following Andy Burnham's potential move to run for prime minister. Craig, 41, is the current leader of Manchester City Council and is positioned as a rising star within Labour. She succeeds Burnham, who won the 2024 election with a large majority. The race is expected to be highly competitive, particularly against Reform UK, which gained significant ground in recent local elections. Reform UK's likely candidate is Dan Barker, while the Greens have nominated Geraldine Coggins. Additionally, the far-right Restore Britain group, led by Marlon West—a father of a grooming gang victim—is anticipated to focus on issues related to grooming gangs. Craig, who is openly gay and the first woman to lead Manchester City Council, emphasizes her background in council housing and her commitment to policies beyond identity-focused discussions.
Bias read (Center): The article provides balanced information about the candidates, their backgrounds, and the political landscape without overtly favoring any side. It includes perspectives from multiple parties and highlights various aspects of the candidates' profiles and strategies.
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 85): The article provides detailed information about the upcoming Greater Manchester mayoral election, naming candidates and their backgrounds. It remains neutral in tone, presenting facts without overt bias, although it highlights the competitive nature of the race.
The IndependentIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 8521 days ago
The Makerfield by-election in northern England saw a significant victory for Labour candidate Andy Burnham, who won 54.8% of the vote, securing a large majority over Reform UK's Robert Kenyon. This result came amid concerns that Labour might face a crisis after poor performance in recent local elections, particularly in Wigan, where Reform UK gained substantial ground. Burnham's win strengthens his position to challenge current Labour leader Keir Starmer for the party leadership. Voters in the area, such as Terry Miller, believe Burnham represents a return to Labour's traditional values and argue that the party has drifted too close to the Conservatives in recent years.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the election outcome and voter perspectives neutrally, quoting both supporters of Burnham and acknowledging the broader political context without overtly favoring any side. It includes balanced viewpoints on Labour's direction and does not exhibit strong framing biases.
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 85): The article accurately reports on Andy Burnham's by-election victory and the expectations surrounding his potential role in the Labour Party. It presents the situation with a balanced tone, focusing on the factual outcomes of the election and its political implications.
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €5/month.
United Kingdom
