Labour's Bev Craig Wins Greater Manchester Mayor Byelection
Bev Craig has won the Greater Manchester mayoral byelection in the UK. She takes over the role left by Andy Burnham.
Burnham left after becoming Labour leader and Prime Minister. Craig leads Manchester City Council.
She beat Reform UK's Sian Astley in a second-round run-off. Early polls had predicted a 62% to 38% result.
Voter turnout was the lowest ever for this mayoral race. Only 25.14% of voters took part.
Labour's win reversed recent gains by Reform UK and the Greens. Those gains happened during May local elections.
Labour took back areas it had lost. The win marks a strong recovery for Labour in the region.
This comes after setbacks just months earlier. Craig has led Manchester City Council since 2021. She will serve as mayor until the next election in May 2028.
Key Terms 3
- byelection A special election held to fill a vacant political position.
- Reform UK A British political party.
- run-off A final round of voting between top candidates.