‘Our own people hate us’: Labour given byelection wake-up call after 13,000-vote majority disappears

The Guardian - World NewsEN 6 min read 100% complete by Rowena Mason, Josh Halliday and Jessica ElgotFebruary 27, 2026 at 07:42 PM

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long article 6 min

In the Gorton and Denton byelection, the Labour party suffered a significant defeat, losing a 13,000-vote majority to the Green Party. Despite Labour strategists initially claiming a strong position against Reform UK, voters expressed disillusionment with the government and Labour's decision to block Andy Burnham from running. The Green Party, led by Zack Polanski, successfully campaigned with local plumber Hannah Spencer as their candidate, presenting a message of hope and change. Labour's attempts to portray the Greens as extremists and rely on low voter turnout proved unsuccessful. The Green Party's victory lap was planned early, indicating their confidence, while Labour hoped for rain to suppress turnout.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Angeliki Stogia 30% Caerphilly 30% Plaid Cymru 40% Matt Goodwin 40% Andy Burnham 40% Zack Polanski ×250% Hollie Ridley 50% Reform UK ×460% Hannah Spencer ×470% Gorton and Denton ×470% Green Party ×780% Labour Party ×1090%

Keywords

gorton and denton 90% byelection 90% green party 80% labour party 80% political strategy 70% hannah spencer 60% reform uk 60% voter disillusionment 60% political upset 50%