Reform UK faced a setback in a significant Welsh constituency recently, indicating Nigel Farage’s party is not invincible, according to Andy Burnham. The Mayor of Greater Manchester highlighted a growing willingness in the country to counter the right-wing movement. The defeat of Labour in the Caerphilly Senned by-election, a seat held since its inception in 1999, underscored this trend.
Despite being favored by bookmakers and heavily investing in the campaign, Reform fell short as Plaid Cymru secured 47% of the vote compared to Reform’s 36%.
During a discussion with The Mirror’s Real Britain columnist Ros-Wynne Jones, Burnham emphasized the defeat of Reform as a positive sign, indicating a readiness to resist and challenge the party. Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram echoed this sentiment, stressing the need to confront Reform directly and unite against their influence.
Burnham expressed satisfaction with Lucy Powell’s victory in the deputy leadership contest, emphasizing the necessity for a unified approach within the Labour Party to effectively combat Reform’s populist right-wing stance.
Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth hailed the election outcome as a testament to Wales choosing hope and progress over division and stagnation. He positioned Plaid Cymru as the genuine alternative to billionaire-backed Reform, offering a vision for a better future that resonates with the people of Wales.
The message from Caerphilly is clear: Wales is ready for new leadership, and Plaid Cymru is leading the charge as the true choice for the nation.