Lobbyist With Palantir Ties Ran Burnham's Byelection Strategy

Martha Dalton, co-founder of lobbying firm Lodestone, directed messaging and rapid response for Andy Burnham’s Makerfield byelection campaign. Lodestone represented data firm Palantir in 2024-2025, showcasing its AI software for public services at Westminster events. Dalton took six weeks’ unpaid leave for the role, the Guardian reported Oct. 2. Burnham became prime minister in July 2026.