Green Party leader Zack Polanski has positioned the forthcoming Gorton and Denton by-election as a definitive choice between "hate and hope," asserting that the race is fundamentally a contest between the Greens and Reform UK. Campaigning vigorously in Denton on Saturday alongside candidate Hannah Spencer, a local councillor and plumber, Mr Polanski observed an "excited" mood among supporters, who are optimistic about electing the area's first Green MP.
A Stark Political Choice
Addressing a gathering of volunteers at Granada Park, Mr Polanski made his stance unequivocal: "We know this election is between the Reform party and the Green Party. It's between hate and hope and I think we know who is going to win." This framing sets the stage for a highly charged electoral battle, with the Greens aiming to capitalise on local enthusiasm and broader political shifts.
Dismissing Labour's Interventions
Mr Polanski directly countered a letter from deputy Labour leader Lucy Powell, who had expressed fears that he was being "played" by Reform, potentially splitting the Labour vote and allowing Reform to secure victory. In comments to the Press Association, Mr Polanski labelled these concerns "absolutely absurd."
He elaborated: "The Green Party are the only party who can stop Reform and to have the Labour Party trying to wade in, trying to make themselves relevant, demonstrates what a difficult week they've had and what a difficult year they've had since gaining power." This rebuttal underscores the Greens' confidence in their electoral strategy and their view of Labour as increasingly peripheral in this contest.
Personal Commitment to Democratic Principles
Mr Polanski also rejected Ms Powell's suggestion that he would have stood as the candidate himself if he believed the Greens could win. "I'm from Manchester sure, but I've lived in London for 20 years," he explained. "In some ways, it would be tempting to move back to Manchester and run for a seat but I have more respect for Mancunians than that. I have more respect for democracy than that." This statement highlights his commitment to local representation and democratic integrity, rather than personal ambition.
Candidate Hannah Spencer's Campaign Experience
Hannah Spencer, accompanied by her four greyhounds at the Granada Park event, shared how her life has transformed "dramatically" since her candidacy was announced. Beyond increased public recognition, she disclosed receiving "quite a lot of abuse," pointing to the intense scrutiny faced by candidates.
Ms Spencer emphasised the prevalence of misinformation: "One of the things that's surprised me most is how many lies have been spreading about me, whether that's because I'm apparently married to the chief executive of AstraZeneca, spoiler alert, I'm not, or the fact I'm apparently not a plumber. That one seems to be spreading absolutely everywhere. I think it's really interesting that that's all that they've got to go up against us."
A Pledge for Parliamentary Impact
If elected, Ms Spencer vowed to make a significant impact in Westminster: "I can promise you when I strut down those corridors in Parliament as the only woman plumber to ever do that I will shake things up. I will do that because it is time for change." This promise aligns with her background as a plumber and local councillor, positioning her as a unique voice for practical, grassroots change.
The Competitive Electoral Field
Ms Spencer faces a diverse field of opponents in the by-election, including:
- Matt Goodwin, a GB News presenter, representing Reform UK.
- Angeliki Stogia, a Manchester city councillor, standing for Labour.
- Charlotte Cadden, a retired police detective, as the Conservative candidate.
- Jackie Pearcey, a local campaigner, for the Liberal Democrats.
This lineup ensures a highly competitive race, with each candidate bringing distinct perspectives and local connections to the forefront. The by-election is poised to be a critical test of political allegiances and emerging trends in the region.
