Labour Selects Bev Craig for Greater Manchester Mayoral Race

The Labour Party selected Bev Craig as its candidate for the Greater Manchester mayoral by-election scheduled for July 30. Craig, the leader of Manchester City Council and the region's deputy mayor for economy, business and inclusive growth, is the city's first female and first LGBT council leader.

The vacancy occurred after Andy Burnham resigned as mayor to return to Parliament as the Member of Parliament for Makerfield. Craig's campaign platform focuses on improving affordability, expanding the Bee Network with frozen fares, and establishing a New High Streets Fund to support local town centers.

Craig faces a field of opponents including Geraldine Coggins of the Green Party and Marlon West of Restore Britain. Other potential challengers include Reform UK and George Galloway of the Workers Party.