Queensland Opposition Leader Steven Miles is facing growing pressure over his leadership as the Stafford by-election in Brisbane becomes one of the most closely watched political contests of 2026. Early counting shows Labor candidate Luke Richmond holding only a narrow lead over the Liberal National Party's Fiona Hammond, with analysts warning that even a significant swing against Labor in this traditional stronghold could weaken Miles's authority. The result is being viewed as a key indicator of Labor's standing in metropolitan Brisbane and could trigger internal calls for a leadership challenge if the party performs poorly.