Mayors After May: The Impact of the 2026 Local Elections

England’s mayoral cabinets have seen a lot of change since the 2026 local elections.

Across Greater Manchester, the North East, Liverpool City Region, the West Midlands, and West Yorkshire, the political make-up of Combined Authority cabinets has shifted significantly.

Labour mayors who were previously working alongside largely Labour-led council leaders are now operating in a much more fragmented and politically contested environment. In several regions a varied mix of political parties are now part of the conversation.

These changes are important to understand. Mayoral cabinets are not simply symbolic forums; they shape major decisions on transport, housing, Net Zero, skills, investment, and economic growth.

As strategic authorities continue to gain powers and influence, the politics around these cabinet tables will become increasingly important to how decisions are made, alliances are built, and regional priorities are delivered.