Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, is emerging as a prominent figure within the Labour Party, reminiscent of Boris Johnson’s ascent from mayor to prime minister. With a blend of charm and political savvy, Burnham is now eyeing a return to Westminster, where he hopes to galvanise support and potentially replace Sir Keir Starmer as party leader.
A New Kind of Politician
Burnham’s rise has been marked by his ability to connect with the public, a quality praised by allies like Sacha Lord, chair of the Night Time Industries Association. Lord claims, “This is probably the first time we could ever have a prime minister that you can have a normal conversation with.” This accessibility stands in stark contrast to many of his predecessors, who have often been perceived as distant or unapproachable.
Yet, the parallels to Johnson’s trajectory are striking. Both politicians have cultivated a unique brand of charisma that resonates with the electorate. Burnham’s popularity has surged, particularly during his tenure as mayor, where he has garnered a reputation akin to the ‘King in the North.’ His journey from the backbenches of Westminster to the forefront of Manchester’s political landscape mirrors Johnson’s path, leading some to speculate whether Burnham could emulate his former rival’s success on a national scale.
Navigating Political Waters
However, the question remains: what does Andy Burnham truly stand for? His political evolution has been marked by a series of strategic pivots, raising concerns about his core beliefs. Burnham has faced scrutiny for his fluctuating positions, particularly regarding the EU and economic policy. As he campaigns for the Makerfield by-election, his previous support for rejoining the EU has been tempered by the constituency’s pro-Leave sentiment.
A former senior Labour adviser who worked alongside Burnham expressed admiration for his political instincts but highlighted the need for clarity in his policy positions: “Andy cannot just hold it together through personality alone. He is going to have to make decisions on positions and compromises.” This sentiment echoes the challenges faced by Johnson, who often appeared to shift his stance based on political expediency.
A Chaotic Approach to Leadership
Burnham’s leadership style has also drawn comparisons to Johnson’s chaotic approach. Critics note his disorganization and smaller team, which could pose challenges if he were to ascend to leadership in Downing Street. Lord defends Burnham’s commitment to engaging with the public, which often leads to him running late to events. “He is well known for always being 25 minutes late, but that’s because he spends time talking to everyone,” Lord explains.
Yet, the lack of a robust support team has raised concerns about Burnham’s capacity to govern effectively, especially if he were to lead the party in a general election. The experience of Johnson, who struggled with team dynamics during his premiership, serves as a cautionary tale for Burnham as he seeks to solidify his position within Labour.
A Politician Transformed
Burnham has transformed significantly since his last stint as an MP, where he was viewed as timid and lacking ambition. Now, he is Labour’s most popular figure, capable of challenging figures like Nigel Farage in a general election. His time as mayor has provided him with valuable experience and a deeper understanding of the needs of the community, particularly regarding the hospitality sector, which is vital to Manchester’s economy.
“I think Andy would be the first to admit that he has changed and learnt since he became mayor,” says Lord. “Being mayor of Manchester has been a real opportunity for him and a learning experience.” This newfound confidence and experience may well position Burnham as a serious contender for the Labour leadership, should he decide to make that leap.
Why it Matters
The trajectory of Andy Burnham could have significant implications for the Labour Party and the UK’s political landscape. With his unique blend of charisma and political intuition, he represents a potential shift within Labour—away from traditional party lines towards a more people-focused approach. As the party grapples with its identity and direction, Burnham’s ability to resonate with the electorate could be crucial in defining Labour’s future and its prospects in the next general election. If he can successfully navigate his political positioning and build a strong team, Burnham may very well chart a new course for Labour at a time when it desperately needs a fresh narrative.
