Manchester Mayor Aims to Topple Starmer in Key By-Election

LONDON. A single constituency of 76,000 voters in Greater Manchester could determine the future of British politics. Andy Burnham, the highly popular mayor of Manchester, is seeking victory in Thursday's by-election to unseat Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The election in Makerfield is seen as a direct challenge to Starmer's leadership. Burnham, a former Labour minister, has built a strong local following. His campaign focuses on regional issues and a break from national party direction. A win for Burnham would send a powerful signal of discontent with Starmer's government. It would also position the mayor as a potential future contender for the top job. The result is expected late Thursday night.