Vote counting progresses in the Gorton and Denton by-election, where Green Party hopeful Hannah Spencer shows strong signs of victory over Labour’s Angeliki Stogia. Party officials express optimism, describing the atmosphere as positive amid early tallies.
Confidence Builds for Greens
Green Party leaders, including deputy Zack Polanski, indicate favorable momentum. A party spokesperson states, “Things are feeling positive. Whatever happens, Greens are here to stay now as a progressive voice in British politics. This marks a seismic moment in British politics where Greens demonstrate they can protect the country from the threat of Reform, and that Labour falls short.”
This potential win represents the Greens’ first success in a parliamentary by-election. Labour secured the Greater Manchester seat in 2024 with over half the vote, but current indications suggest a tough fight for retention.
Labour Faces Challenges
Labour sources acknowledge the Greens’ effective voter mobilization. One insider notes, “Early signs at the count indicate the Greens have turned out support in a way they wouldn’t replicate at a general election.”
Labour chair Anna Turley voices optimism, saying she feels “really optimistic” about chances, while adding, “Incumbent governments always find it difficult to fight by-elections.” Party activists numbered over 1,000, contacting more voters than in any prior by-election polling day.
Broader Political Implications
A Labour loss in this longtime stronghold delivers a significant setback to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership, amid pressures from the Lord Peter Mandelson scandal, No. 10 staff departures, and declining popularity. Labour positioned itself as the primary choice for anti-Reform voters, but defeat would weaken that narrative and elevate Green credibility.
The contest followed former Labour MP Andrew Gwynne’s resignation for health reasons. Reform UK’s Matt Goodwin competed closely, with Thursday turnout at 47.6%, matching the 47.8% from 2024. Labour previously lost the sole post-2024 Westminster by-election in Runcorn and Helsby to Reform UK.
