Labour has initiated a targeted social media campaign aimed at dissuading voters from supporting the Green Party in the upcoming Gorton and Denton by-election. The party fears that the Greens could secure a victory in this Greater Manchester constituency, drawing unsettling parallels to Labour's previous defeat in the Caerphilly by-election.
By-Election Context and Labour's Concerns
The by-election, scheduled for 26 February 2026, was triggered by the resignation of former Labour MP Andrew Gwynne. Labour MPs and political analysts have raised alarms that the Green Party might capitalise on voter dissatisfaction and tactical anti-Reform UK votes. This scenario mirrors the circumstances that led to Labour's loss in Caerphilly, where strategic voting patterns shifted the outcome unexpectedly.
Green Party's Ambitions and Strategy
Green Party leader Zack Polanski has openly stated his party's objective to 'replace the Labour Party' in this contest. He characterises the Gorton and Denton by-election as a direct confrontation between the Greens and Reform UK, positioning Labour as a secondary player. This bold stance has intensified Labour's efforts to counter the Green surge through digital outreach.
Labour's Campaign Tactics
Labour's campaign includes a video that highlights polling data showing the party in second place behind Reform UK, with the Greens trailing in third. The video also criticises Green policies, such as their stance on drug legalisation, in an attempt to sway voters away from tactical support for the Greens. This approach underscores Labour's strategy to consolidate its base and prevent vote-splitting that could benefit other parties.
The outcome of this by-election could have significant implications for Labour's electoral strategy in future contests, particularly in areas where minor parties are gaining traction. As the campaign intensifies, both parties are ramping up their efforts to secure voter loyalty in a highly competitive political landscape.
