Jake Austin has been announced as the Liberal Democrat candidate for the Makerfield by-election

EMBARGO: IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Jake Austin has been announced as Liberal Democrat candidate for the Makerfield by-election 

Jake Austin has been selected as the Liberal Democrat candidate for Makerfield in the upcoming by-election, pledging to champion local issues that matter most to residents. Jake is passionate about revitalising our high streets, ⁠improving public transport across the North West, and providing affordable homes for the next generation.

Jake was born and raised in Hindley, and has lived in Greater Manchester his whole life. Working in fundraising, Jake is also a Liberal Democrat Councillor.

In 2024, Jake was the Liberal Democrat candidate in the Greater Manchester Mayorality election, increasing the Liberal Democrat vote share against Andy Burnham from the 2021 election.

Labour party infighting has undermined trust in politics at a time when the British public have been utterly squeezed by the cost of living crisis and Trump’s illegal war in Iran. Jake is standing in Makerfield to show voters what a committed local champion looks like - one who isn’t caught up in national leadership ambitions. 

Making progress on the change that was promised in 2024 has been sidelined by this protracted psychodrama, whilst Liberal Democrats like Jake continue serving their residents on the real issues. 

People in Makerfield and across the country deserve so much better than this.

Commenting on his selection, Jake Austin said:

“I’m thrilled to have been selected as the Liberal Democrat candidate for Makerfield. Voters in Makerfield deserve so much more than the failing Labour government or the divisive politics of Reform UK.

“We have a real opportunity to champion the issues that matter most to people: the cost of living, protecting our natural environment and supporting our local high streets and businesses.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

For all media queries please contact pressoffice@libdems.org.uk.