In a striking political upset, the Green Party has won the Gorton and Denton by‑election, dealing a significant setback to Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Labour Party. The result marks the first time the Greens have captured a Westminster by‑election seat, signalling a major shift in British politics.
The Green Party’s Hannah Spencer, a local councillor and plumber, secured victory with 14,980 votes, overturning Labour’s previous 13,000‑vote majority. Reform UK’s Matt Goodwin finished second with 10,578 votes, while Labour trailed in third place with 9,364 votes — a sharp decline from their performance in the 2024 general election.
Labour’s loss reflects growing voter dissatisfaction with Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership and policies. The party’s vote share dropped by more than 25 %, raising concerns about its strategy and connection with traditional supporters. Critics have pointed to issues such as internal disagreements, controversy over candidate selection, and voter frustration on topics including foreign policy and economic challenges.
The Greens’ success in a historically safe Labour seat underscores a broader fragmentation in UK politics, with smaller parties now challenging the traditional two‑party dominance. The result could have implications for the upcoming local elections in May, as well as the 2029 general election, with the Greens seen as a rising force on the left.
Reaction across the political spectrum was swift. Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged the defeat as disappointing but vowed to “keep on fighting” despite the setback, while Green supporters celebrated the victory as a sign of growing appetite for change.
The Gorton and Denton by‑election has already sparked debate within Labour circles over leadership and direction, and the result will likely continue to shape UK political discourse in the months ahead.
