Michael Winstanley - Conservative Candidate, Makerfield
Michael Winstanley — Conservative Candidate, Makerfield By-Election 2026
Last updated: 25 May 2026 By-election date: Thursday 18 June 2026
Bio
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Full name | Michael Winstanley |
| Party | Conservative |
| Constituency | Makerfield |
| First-time candidate | Likely |
How They Got Selected
Named as Conservative candidate on 20 May 2026. Selected amid questions over Kemi Badenoch's approach to the by-election — the Conservatives have been largely absent from the campaign narrative, with the race dominated by Labour vs Reform.
Polling
| Date | Pollster | Winstanley % | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23 May | Survation / Sunday Times | 2% | Trailing far behind main contenders |
What It Means
The Conservative vote in Makerfield has collapsed. Once a Labour-Conservative marginal, the party is now a fringe presence — polling at just 2% and being squeezed by both Reform UK (right) and Labour (centre-left). The Tories are effectively spectators in this by-election.