The first election of the Andy Burnham era is already here – POLITICO

MANCHESTER — Andy Burnham hasn’t even been prime minister for two weeks — but his record is already on the ballot paper in a key mayoral race.

Just 10 days after entering Downing Street, Burnham will be closely watching the verdict Thursday of voters across Greater Manchester who will pick his replacement as mayor of the city region that helped him build his power base and define himself against Westminster.

The post, which Burnham held for nine years until resigning in June after winning a seat in parliament, comes with a host of powers including over transport, policing and housing for more than three million people.