LONDON, The ruling Labour Party suffered a shock defeat in the Runcorn and Helsby by-election, where Reform UK clinched victory by a razor-thin margin of just six votes, overturning a once-secure Labour majority and sending political shockwaves through Westminster.
The dramatic upset marks the first parliamentary seat won by Reform UK in 2025 and reflects the party’s growing traction among disillusioned voters, particularly in traditional Labour strongholds.
Official results confirmed that Reform UK candidate Mark Buxton edged out Labour’s hopeful by a vote tally of 12,319 to 12,313, a result that party leader Richard Tice hailed as a “historic breakthrough.”
“This is a turning point in British politics,” Tice declared outside Parliament on Friday morning. “The people have had enough of broken promises, mass immigration, and political elitism. Reform is the future.”
The by-election, triggered by the resignation of Labour MP Alison McGovern, had been viewed as a relatively safe seat. Labour had previously held the constituency with a majority of over 9,000 votes, making the loss all the more damaging for Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who now faces questions over his party’s momentum.
Analysts say Reform UK’s win is not an isolated case but part of a broader pattern of electoral gains, following strong showings in recent local elections across the North and Midlands. The party has capitalized on public frustration over immigration, crime, and cost-of-living issues areas where Labour’s messaging appears to have faltered.
Labour MP Jess Phillips admitted the result was a wake-up call: “We cannot take our heartlands for granted. People are angry, and if we don’t address their concerns directly, they will look elsewhere.”
Turnout was reportedly low, at just over 41%, further highlighting voter disengagement with mainstream parties.
In response, Starmer issued a brief statement: “We hear the message loud and clear. We will redouble our efforts to connect with working people and deliver real change.”
The outcome also underscores growing pressure on Labour to clarify its stance on contentious policies, including immigration reform and public sector funding, as the party prepares for the next general election.
Reform UK, now with a foothold in Parliament, is expected to use its platform to amplify its anti-establishment agenda a move that could reshape the political landscape heading into 2026.
