Andy Burnham is running in a UK election that could make him Britain's next leader

Key Points:

• About 75,000 voters in Ashton-in-Makerfield, northwest England, will vote in a June 18 by-election that could influence the UK’s next prime minister or deepen political instability, drawing unprecedented global media attention for a midterm election.
• Labour’s Andy Burnham, Greater Manchester’s mayor, is contesting to replace outgoing Labour MP Josh Simons and potentially challenge party leader Keir Starmer amid Labour’s recent struggles with economic growth and public service issues.
• Reform UK, a hard-right party led by Nigel Farage, is making significant inroads in this traditional Labour stronghold, capitalizing on voter concerns over immigration and public service pressures, following strong local election results.
• Immigration is a central campaign issue, with some voters blaming high immigration for straining housing and services, while Labour faces criticism for failing to deliver on economic promises and managing public dissatisfaction.
• The election is expected to be closely contested, with Burnham emphasizing a focus on local needs and broader political change, while Reform UK and other hardline parties seek to capitalize on voter discontent with the current Labour government.