UK Election: Green Party Challenges Labour in Key By-Election

Gorton and Denton, a traditionally Labour-held constituency in Greater Manchester, is bracing for a pivotal by-election on February 26th. The contest, triggered by the resignation of former MP Andrew Gwynne, has quickly develop into a battleground not just between the established parties, but also a testing ground for the Green Party’s ambitions to supplant Labour as the leading force on the left. As the UK grapples with economic uncertainty and shifting political allegiances, this suburban election is drawing attention as a potential bellwether for national sentiment.

The Green Party, under the leadership of Zack Polanski, is mounting a significant challenge, framing the election as a direct contest against the rising force of Reform UK. Polanski, a former actor and hypnotherapist who assumed leadership in September 2025, has focused on social justice and a platform that resonates with voters disillusioned with mainstream politics. The party’s membership has doubled in 2025, reaching 190,000 by year-end, signaling a growing appetite for an alternative vision. This surge in support has positioned the Greens as serious contenders in a seat where they previously trailed far behind Labour and Reform UK.

A By-Election Born of Controversy

The by-election was called following Andrew Gwynne’s resignation as the Labour MP for Gorton and Denton. Gwynne’s departure stemmed from controversy surrounding WhatsApp messages he sent that were deemed offensive by colleagues, as reported by the BBC on February 7, 2026. This incident has added a layer of complexity to the campaign, with Labour seeking to defend its long-held stronghold while distancing itself from the scandal. The constituency, characterized by former mills converted into storage facilities and aging housing estates, represents a demographic that has historically leaned towards Labour, but is now showing signs of potential shifts in voter loyalty.

The Greens’ “Stop Reform” Strategy

Zack Polanski and the Green Party are aggressively pursuing a “stop Reform” strategy, positioning themselves as the primary alternative to the right-wing populist party. They argue that only the Greens can prevent Reform UK from gaining a foothold in the constituency. Hannah Spencer, a 34-year-old plumber and local councillor, is the Green Party’s candidate. Polanski has emphasized Spencer’s connection to the community and her commitment to addressing local concerns. According to reporting by *The Independent* on February 18, 2026, Polanski stated, “Hannah Spencer will be a brilliant MP for the people of Gorton and Denton… We have just days to stop Reform and make hope normal again.”

This strategy is a direct response to the growing support for Reform UK, which came second in the 2024 general election with 5,142 votes, narrowly beating the Greens who received 4,810 votes. Labour won the seat decisively in 2024, securing 18,555 votes. The Greens are hoping to capitalize on any disillusionment with Labour and attract voters who are concerned about the rise of right-wing populism. The campaign has focused on contrasting the Green Party’s progressive policies with what they characterize as Reform UK’s divisive rhetoric.

Reform UK’s Challenge and Controversial Backing

Reform UK, led by figures like Nigel Farage and GB News presenter Matt Goodwin, is actively campaigning in Gorton and Denton. Goodwin’s candidacy has drawn scrutiny due to his past statements and associations. *The Independent* reported that Goodwin has previously stated that “Britishness requires more than a piece of paper” and has received support from far-right activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, also known as Tommy Robinson. This association has fueled criticism from opponents who accuse Reform UK of harboring extremist views.

The presence of Reform UK in the race has complicated matters for Labour, which fears a split in the vote could hand victory to the right-wing party. Deputy Labour leader Lucy Powell reportedly warned Polanski that he risked being “played” by Reform UK and inadvertently aiding their success. Polanski dismissed these claims as “absolutely absurd,” arguing that the Green Party is the only viable alternative to Reform UK. He also criticized Labour’s performance since gaining power, suggesting the party is struggling to connect with voters.

Polanski’s Position and the Labour Response

Zack Polanski’s leadership of the Green Party has been marked by a deliberate effort to broaden the party’s appeal beyond its traditional base. He has emphasized the importance of social justice and economic equality, issues that resonate with working-class voters. His background as an actor and hypnotherapist has also contributed to his charismatic public persona. However, his decision to contest the Gorton and Denton by-election has raised questions about his commitment to the Manchester area, as he has lived in London for the past 20 years. Polanski addressed these concerns, stating he has “more respect for Mancunians than that” and that relocating solely to contest a seat would be disingenuous.

Labour’s response to the Green Party’s challenge has been cautious. While the party is confident of retaining the seat, It’s aware of the potential for a significant shift in voter allegiances. The party is focusing on its traditional strengths – its commitment to public services and its long-standing ties to the local community. However, the controversy surrounding Andrew Gwynne’s resignation and the rise of Reform UK present significant challenges to Labour’s campaign.

Concerns Raised Over Green Party Interview

Recent scrutiny has also fallen on the Green Party regarding an interview conducted with a website that has been criticized for promoting anti-Jewish and anti-LGBTQ+ content. According to reporting by Jewish News on February 20, 2026, Zack Polanski, Deputy Leader Mothin Ali, and candidate Hannah Spencer participated in an interview with the publication, which was subsequently shared on the Green Party’s Twitter account. The interview was later deleted following criticism. This incident has raised concerns about the party’s vetting processes and its commitment to combating hate speech.

What’s at Stake?

The Gorton and Denton by-election is more than just a contest for a single parliamentary seat. It represents a broader realignment of British politics, with the traditional two-party system facing increasing challenges from smaller parties like the Greens and Reform UK. A strong performance by the Green Party could signal a significant shift in public opinion and pave the way for further gains in future elections. Conversely, a victory for Reform UK would be a major breakthrough for the right-wing populist movement and could embolden its supporters. For Labour, retaining the seat is crucial to demonstrating its ability to hold onto its traditional strongholds and maintain its position as the main opposition party.

The outcome of the by-election will likely be influenced by a number of factors, including voter turnout, the effectiveness of each party’s campaign messaging, and the broader political climate. The election is taking place against a backdrop of economic uncertainty, rising living costs, and growing public dissatisfaction with the government. These factors could all play a role in shaping the results.

As the campaign enters its final days, all eyes are on Gorton and Denton. The by-election promises to be a closely fought contest with significant implications for the future of British politics. The results, expected on February 26th, will be closely watched by political analysts and commentators across the country.

The next key date will be the official announcement of the by-election results on February 26th. Further analysis of the outcome and its implications for the wider political landscape will follow. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and perspectives on this important election in the comments section below.