In a striking political shift, the Greater Manchester constituency of Gorton and Denton, once considered a bastion of Labour support, is now the stage for a critical by-election that could redefine the area's political landscape. With the governing Labour Party seemingly absent from the fray, Green Party deputy leader Zack Polanski has positioned his party as the primary contender in what he describes as a direct contest against the extremist forces of Reform UK.
A Two-Horse Race Emerges in Manchester
Polanski asserts that bookmakers, pollsters, and political commentators are increasingly viewing the Greens as the leading challenger to secure the seat, framing the election as a pivotal two-horse race. He emphasises that the Green Party represents a genuine movement for change, offering tangible solutions to the pressing issues facing Manchester residents and citizens nationwide. These proposals include ambitious plans to reduce household bills, revitalise public services, and enhance the quality of life across the country.
In contrast, Polanski criticises the Labour Party as a spent force, accusing them of focusing on trivial matters like minor leaflet errors rather than engaging with the substantive vision put forward by the Greens. He suggests this avoidance stems from Labour's recognition of the popularity of Green policies compared to their own perceived failed agenda.
The Reform UK Candidate Under Scrutiny
The article highlights a significant concern for Polanski: the candidacy of Matthew Goodwin for Reform UK in Gorton and Denton. Polanski describes Goodwin as a dangerous extremist, pointing to his controversial views on race and nationality. Specifically, Goodwin has argued that being born and raised in the UK does not automatically confer British identity on individuals from black, Asian, or immigrant backgrounds.
Furthermore, Polanski notes that Goodwin has discussed acts of severe violence, such as attempts to set fire to a hotel housing asylum seekers, framing them merely as reactions to mass immigration. Goodwin is also identified as a vocal supporter of Viktor Orbán's authoritarian regime in Hungary. Polanski questions whether Goodwin genuinely believes these statements or is simply espousing them to advance his political career, referencing Goodwin's past criticisms of figures like Tommy Robinson and previous praise for migration.
A Battle of Ideologies and Resources
Polanski acknowledges the formidable challenges faced by the Green Party in this contest. He points out that Reform UK benefits from substantial financial backing, including donations from crypto-millionaires and climate change deniers, and leverages powerful social media algorithms to disseminate misinformation. In contrast, Polanski champions the Green Party's strength as lying in people power—a vast network of committed, passionate supporters from diverse backgrounds united by a common goal to improve the country.
As a Mancunian himself, Polanski expresses confidence that the city's values of unity, inclusivity, and discernment will reject Goodwin's divisive rhetoric. He portrays the by-election as a crucial moment for the nation, warning that a Reform victory would empower a dangerous charlatan and endorse politics of hate. Conversely, a Green win on February 26 would mark a turning point toward a more hopeful, united, and resilient future.
The Stakes for Greater Manchester and Beyond
This by-election transcends local politics, symbolising a broader national struggle between progressive environmental policies and populist extremism. With Labour sidelined, the Greens are positioning themselves as the sole viable alternative to Reform, aiming to capitalise on public dissatisfaction and a desire for substantive change. The outcome in Gorton and Denton could signal shifting political allegiances in traditional Labour heartlands and influence the strategic direction of UK politics in the years to come.
