The by-election in Gorton and Denton, Greater Manchester, has emerged as a critical litmus test for Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership of the Labour Party. Polls closed on 26 February 2026 at 10pm, concluding a fierce competition among Labour, the Greens, and Reform UK. As Labour attempts to solidify its position, a disappointing result could raise questions about Starmer’s future at the helm of the party.
A Crucial By-Election for Labour
This by-election was prompted by the resignation of former MP Andrew Gwynne, who stepped down citing serious health issues. Gwynne had been serving as an independent after being suspended from Labour due to controversial remarks made in a private WhatsApp group, which included offensive comments directed at a woman regarding her concerns about local bin collections.
Labour previously held the Gorton and Denton seat with a commanding majority, securing over 50% of the vote in the 2024 general election. However, recent polling indicated a tightening race, suggesting that Starmer’s party was facing a strong challenge from Matt Goodwin of Reform UK and the Greens’ Hannah Spencer. A win for Labour would provide much-needed breathing room for Starmer, especially as scrutiny of his leadership intensifies.
The Stakes for Starmer
Political analysts have noted that a lacklustre performance, potentially finishing third in a constituency once considered a Labour stronghold, could spell trouble for Starmer. While some Labour MPs have indicated that an immediate challenge to his leadership is unlikely—citing the upcoming local and devolved elections on 7 May—there remains a palpable sense of unease within the party. The possibility of a leadership contest looms large, especially if voters express dissatisfaction with Labour’s direction.
Polling stations opened at 7am on the day of the election, drawing significant turnout from constituents eager to voice their opinions. With the political landscape shifting and growing competition from other parties, the results from Gorton and Denton will be closely scrutinised.
Candidate Overview
The by-election featured a diverse array of candidates from various parties. In addition to Labour’s Angeliki Stogia, Reform UK’s Matt Goodwin, and the Green Party’s Hannah Spencer, the ballot included representatives from the Conservative Party, Liberal Democrats, and several smaller parties. The presence of a wide spectrum of candidates reflects the increasingly fragmented political climate in the UK.
In the previous general election, Labour’s Gwynne secured 18,555 votes, representing a 50.8% share of the vote. Despite this, there was a noticeable decrease in support compared to the prior election, signalling a potential shift in voter sentiment. Reform UK made gains in 2024, capturing 14.1% of the vote, while the Greens saw a marked increase in their share, suggesting growing support for alternative political parties in the region.
The Road Ahead
As the results from the Gorton and Denton by-election unfold, the implications for Labour and Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership will be significant. The party’s future direction and its ability to resonate with voters across the UK may hinge on the outcome. While Labour hopes to reaffirm its dominance in a historically secure seat, the rise of Reform UK and the Greens indicates a challenge that cannot be ignored.
Why it Matters
The Gorton and Denton by-election is not just a local contest; it represents broader trends in British politics, highlighting the shifting allegiances of voters and the potential for new political dynamics. For Sir Keir Starmer, the stakes are particularly high, as the outcome may determine not only his own leadership but also the Labour Party’s ability to unify and respond to the evolving needs of its constituents. As political tensions rise and challenges mount, the results will be closely examined for insights into the future of the Labour Party and the UK’s political landscape overall.
