City council chief named as Labour’s mayor pick

By the Editorial Team · Wednesday, June 24, 2026

Bev Craig, leader of Manchester city council and former deputy mayor, has been chosen as Labour’s candidate for the Greater Manchester mayoral election to succeed Andy Burnham. Her campaign focuses on expanding affordable housing, boosting the local economy, and developing the region’s transport network, signaling continued support for Burnham’s progressive regional policies.

Bev Craig, the leader of Manchester city council, has been confirmed as the Labour Party’s candidate for the upcoming Greater Manchester mayoral election. Craig aims to succeed Andy Burnham, the current mayor who recently returned to Parliament after winning the Makerfield by-election and has signaled ambitions to challenge Sir Keir Starmer for the Labour leadership.

Craig, 41, who has served as a deputy mayor of Greater Manchester with responsibilities for the economy, business, and inclusive growth, was widely anticipated to become Labour’s mayoral pick. She assumed leadership of Manchester city council in December 2021, taking over from Sir Richard Leese, and holds the distinction of being the city’s first female council leader as well as its first openly LGBT leader. Originally from Northern Ireland, Craig relocated to Greater Manchester at age 18.

Labour highlighted Craig’s track record as deputy mayor, including her efforts to attract international investment and oversee affordable housing projects. Speaking about her candidacy, Craig reflected on Greater Manchester’s historical role as a center for progress, pointing to its legacy from the industrial revolution through to the trade union and suffragette movements. She emphasized the city region’s ability to forge its own path despite perceived neglect from Westminster, citing achievements under Burnham’s tenure such as the re-nationalization of bus services, job creation, investment attraction, and regional development.

Craig outlined key priorities for her mayoralty, including ensuring broader economic benefits for residents, revitalizing town centers through a new high streets fund, expanding council and affordable housing, and growing the Bee Network—Greater Manchester’s integrated transport system—with a commitment to freeze fares. “For too many people, who work hard and do the right thing, life still feels too hard and unaffordable,” Craig said, underscoring her pledge to improve living standards across the region.

In addition to Labour’s announcement, other candidates have declared their bids for the mayoralty. Trafford councillor Geraldine Coggins will stand for the Green Party, while Marlon West, known for campaigning against sexual abuse, has been named as the Restore Britain candidate.

The election will determine who will lead Greater Manchester’s combined authority, overseeing key regional issues including transport, housing, and economic development. Craig’s selection marks Labour’s commitment to continuing the policies pursued under Burnham’s leadership while addressing ongoing challenges faced by the area’s communities.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.