Makerfield voters demand political honesty and economic relief ahead of byelection
Research conducted by JL Partners two weeks before the 18 June vote shows Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham holding a narrow lead over Reform UK, with immigration and public services also ranking as key priorities for residents.
Voters in Makerfield have identified the cost of living, declining high streets, and public services as their primary concerns ahead of the byelection on 18 June, according to new research commissioned by 38 Degrees and conducted by JL Partners. The focus group, involving 112 residents, indicates significant disillusionment with the political system, with participants citing a urgent need for honesty and expressing distrust towards politicians.
The fieldwork, carried out roughly two weeks before the election, reflects a highly competitive contest. Data shows Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham holding a slim lead over Reform UK, with 31.2 per cent of respondents planning to vote Labour and 30.4 per cent for Reform. The Greens and Conservatives each polled at 10.7 per cent, while the Liberal Democrats received 3.6 per cent of support.
More than a third of respondents spontaneously raised the cost of living when asked about changes that would improve their lives. Concerns centred on household bills, food, fuel, council tax, and the need for affordable housing. One participant noted the necessity for costs to decrease so residents could afford to live, while others highlighted the struggle to survive rising prices for petrol and groceries.
Three in ten respondents prioritised fixing the local environment and public services, specifically mentioning high streets, roads, potholes, and access to NHS services. Voters expressed a desire for thriving local businesses that support farmers and local enterprises, rather than the proliferation of vape shops and mini markets. Immigration was raised as a priority by approximately one in eight respondents, an issue particularly pertinent among Reform UK voters who linked it to social housing allocation.
Tom Lubbock, co-founder of JL Partners, described Makerfield as a snapshot of the country in miniature. He noted that Burnham is cutting both ways in the constituency, viewed by some as a prime minister-in-waiting and by others as a stepping stone. Lubbock emphasised that voters want boldness from politicians and a leader who tells the truth and remains engaged after polling day.
Veronica Hawking, campaigns director at 38 Degrees, stated that families are under immense pressure from the cost of living crisis and are exhausted by a political system they perceive as broken and self-serving. She noted that voters are sending a clear message that they want an MP who can be trusted to deliver on promises, with more money left at the end of the month and improved community services.
The research underscores a broader national sentiment regarding political distrust and economic strain. Respondents across party lines, including Labour and Reform voters, called for an end to wealthy business donations influencing policy and demanded that politicians work for voters rather than increasing their own wealth. The findings suggest that the party convincing Makerfield it will act rather than merely campaign will secure the seat.