The Green Party has launched a scathing attack on Westminster's voting system, declaring it fundamentally broken after the party secured nearly 800,000 votes across England and Wales in the general election yet returned just a single MP.
Deputy Leader Zack Polanski delivered a powerful critique of what he termed the "democratic deficit" plaguing British politics, pointing to the stark contrast between public support and parliamentary representation.
The Numbers That Don't Add Up
Despite amassing an impressive 772,000 votes nationwide, the Greens managed to elect only one MP - Carla Denyer in Bristol Central. This outcome highlights what many are calling a crisis in democratic representation.
"Our voting system is broken," Polanski stated unequivocally. "We've secured hundreds of thousands of votes but only one seat. This isn't just about the Greens - it's about millions of voters across the country whose voices are being silenced by an outdated system."
A Growing Movement for Change
The Greens aren't alone in their criticism. The Liberal Democrats, who secured more than 70 seats with approximately 3.5 million votes, have long advocated for proportional representation. Even Reform UK, despite winning five seats with over four million votes, has joined calls for electoral reform.
Polanski emphasized the broader implications: "This isn't just a Green Party issue. We're seeing a fundamental disconnect between what people vote for and what they get in Parliament. The current system is failing democracy itself."
Beyond Bristol: The Green Surge Continues
While parliamentary representation remains limited, the Greens' influence continues to grow at local levels. The party now boasts nearly 800 councillors across England and Wales and has established itself as the largest party on several councils, including Bristol, where they operate in a progressive alliance.
This local success story demonstrates the party's growing appeal and organizational strength, even as the Westminster system continues to marginalize their national support.
The Path Forward
The Green Party is now positioning itself at the forefront of a growing movement demanding constitutional reform. With public trust in political institutions at historic lows, the call for a voting system that truly reflects the will of the people is gaining momentum.
As Polanski concluded: "The evidence is clear and overwhelming. We need a politics that works for everyone, not just the few. Proportional representation isn't just a nice idea - it's essential for rebuilding trust in our democracy."
