Reform UK Wins Runcorn By-Election, Defeats Labour by Six Votes

Reform UK achieved a historic upset by winning the Runcorn and Helsby by-election, overturning Labour’s previously large majority by a margin of just six votes. The victory, secured by Sarah Pochin after a recount, marks the smallest majority in a UK parliamentary by-election since 1945 and signals a significant shift in traditional Labour strongholds. The contest was triggered by the resignation of Labour MP Mike Amesbury following his conviction for assaulting a constituent, contributing to Labour’s vulnerability. Reform’s win, their fifth parliamentary seat, is seen as a breakthrough and reflects a 17% swing from Labour, raising questions about the stability of the two-party system and posing new challenges for Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s leadership. The Conservatives also suffered a dramatic collapse in vote share, highlighting shifting political dynamics. Reform’s broader electoral gains and Farage’s strategy to appeal to disaffected Labour voters further underscore the party’s growing national presence.