Green Party Candidate Withdraws from Makerfield By-election Hours After Selection

1-Minute Brief

The rapid withdrawal of the Green Party candidate may affect the dynamics of the upcoming Makerfield byelection.

Key Facts

• Andy Burnham is launching his campaign to be the Labour candidate for the Makerfield byelection.
• Chris Kennedy withdrew from the Makerfield byelection hours after being named as the Green Party candidate.
• Kennedy's withdrawal came shortly after his selection was publicly announced.
• Chris Kennedy is a nurse and children's safeguarding specialist chosen after a hustings.
• The Makerfield byelection is scheduled to take place on 18 June.

What Happened

Chris Kennedy was announced as the Green Party candidate for the Makerfield byelection but withdrew from the contest within hours. Andy Burnham is launching his campaign as Labour's candidate.

Why It Matters

The Green Party candidate's withdrawal could influence the distribution of votes among parties and impact the outcome of the Makerfield byelection.

What's Next

Attention will turn to how parties adjust their campaigns following the Green Party's candidate withdrawal and to the upcoming byelection on 18 June.