Laura Kuenssberg: Is Andy Burnham Labour's saviour, or just its best bet?

Laura Kuenssberg examines whether Andy Burnham can become Labour’s “saviour” after his recent by-election win, framing the political moment as a test for his leadership trajectory. The article says Burnham, the Greater Manchester mayor, is poised to enter No 10 in less than a month and that he won a by-election in Makerfield 10 days earlier in a contest described by a former minister as “Russian roulette,” beating Reform. It notes Labour MPs gathered in Westminster Hall for a large photo on his first day back and highlights their expectation that he can face Nigel Farage and defend seats while maintaining part of Labour’s 2024 majority. Kuenssberg also describes concerns among colleagues about the challenge of appealing beyond Manchester and cites comments about his popularity and style of communication. The piece references an example from his social media and earlier public interactions in Manchester.