Green Party Secures Historic Victory in Gorton and Denton By-Election
The Green Party has achieved a remarkable victory in the Gorton and Denton by-election, with candidate Hannah Spencer claiming the seat after a fiercely contested three-way battle. In a stunning political upset, the Labour Party slumped to third place, trailing behind Reform UK in second.
A Tense Electoral Contest with Significant Turnout
Voters headed to the polls on Thursday, 26 February, with polling stations operating from 7am to 10pm. The by-election was triggered by the resignation of former Labour MP Andrew Gwynne on health grounds, following what has been described as a fall from grace. This contest was widely viewed as a crucial test of Sir Keir Starmer's leadership and the political landscape in the region.
The turnout was confirmed at 47.62%, with 36,903 verified votes cast. This figure is remarkably close to the 47.8% turnout recorded during the 2024 general election, indicating sustained voter engagement despite the by-election context.
Detailed Election Results and Political Implications
Hannah Spencer secured victory with 14,980 votes, establishing a clear majority. Reform UK candidate Matt Goodwin, who had received backing from far-right campaigner Tommy Robinson, finished in second place with 10,578 votes. Labour's Angeliki Stogia came third with 9,364 votes, marking a dramatic decline from Labour's performance in the 2024 general election where they had secured over 50% of the vote.
Prior to the official announcement, a Green Party source expressed optimism to the Press Association, stating: "Things are feeling positive. Not wanting to get ahead of ourselves, but everything that we thought that was going to be happening looks like it's happening. Whatever happens, I think it's fair to say that Greens are here to stay now as a progressive voice in British politics."
The source added: "We've said from the start we're not here to be disappointed by Labour, but we're here to replace them. And from day one of the by-election, we've said that Greens are the only party that could beat Reform. And I think tonight we're seeing both of those things potentially coming true."
Controversies and Electoral Integrity Concerns
The by-election was not without controversy. Observers reported "extremely high" instances of illegal 'family voting' at polling stations, a criminal offence under the Ballot Secrecy Act 2023. Democracy volunteers witnessed incidents in 15 out of 22 observed polling stations, where family members entered voting booths together to collude or direct voting intentions.
Green Party leader Zack Polanski indicated he would support an investigation into these allegations, while Reform UK chair David Bull expressed deep concerns about whether the election was "free, fair, and democratic."
Additionally, the election sparked controversy when Andy Burnham was prevented from standing by Labour's National Executive Committee, thwarting his potential return to Parliament through this by-election.
Hannah Spencer's Background and Victory Speech
Hannah Spencer, a plumber who recently qualified as a plasterer, emphasized her working-class background in her victory speech. "I am no different to every other person in this room - I work hard that is what we do," she declared.
She addressed economic concerns facing the constituency: "Working hard used to get you something, A house, a nice life, holidays. Now, talk to anyone here, the people who work hard can't put food on the table, get kids' uniforms, or put the heating on."
Spencer continued: "Life has changed. Instead of working for a nice life, we line the pockets of billionaires. We are being bled dry."
The new MP highlighted her commitment to the diverse Gorton and Denton community: "I've lived in this constituency at one of most difficult periods of my life. I saw how strong the community was at holding things together. I am fighting for the community I lived in and still work in. I refuse to accept that we should have to leave our community for good schools, a high street and clean air."
Addressing all constituents, Spencer concluded: "To those who voted for me, I know earning your trust starts now. I will earn your trust. To those those who didn't vote for me, I will always work hard for you and always be decent." She humorously added that she might need to cancel some plumbing work as she heads to Parliament.
Socio-Political Context of Gorton and Denton
The constituency presents a complex socio-political landscape, characterized by some of the region's most deprived neighbourhoods existing alongside affluent areas just miles away. This divide contributed to the tight three-way contest between Labour, Reform UK, and the Greens.
Despite Labour's stronghold in the 2024 general election, the party was labeled third favorite in this by-election following significant surges in support for both the Green Party and Reform UK. The result represents what Green Party sources described as "a seismic moment in British politics" where Greens demonstrate they can protect the country from the threat of Reform while Labour appears unable to meet the challenge.
