In a surprising turn of events, the Labour Party has lost the local election in Gorton and Denton, Greater Manchester, marking a significant political shift. The announcement came during the ITV breakfast show Good Morning Britain on February 27, 2024, just minutes into the programme, shocking viewers and party members alike. The Green Party’s Hannah Spencer has now been elected as the Member of Parliament, making her the first Green MP in the North of England.
This electoral defeat is particularly notable as the constituency had been a stronghold for Labour for nearly a century. The results indicate a growing shift in voter sentiment, with Reform UK finishing in second place. Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, had previously described the election as “a battle for the soul of the nation.”
Historic Victory for the Green Party
During the broadcast, hosts Kate Garraway and Ranvir Singh discussed the implications of this unexpected outcome. Singh spoke with reporter Louisa Jameson, who was on the ground in Manchester. “It is absolutely remarkable what they’ve achieved there overnight,” Jameson stated, highlighting the significance of the Green Party’s success.
With this victory, the Greens have secured their fifth MP and their first by-election win, further establishing their presence in British politics. Jameson noted the jubilant atmosphere surrounding Spencer’s win, indicating a strong reaction from supporters and campaigners. “The Greens now have their fifth MP, their first in the north of England and their first ever by-election win,” she added. Spencer appeared overwhelmed as she celebrated with her supporters.
Implications for Labour and Future Tactics
The outcome raises pressing questions for Labour, especially concerning Starmer’s leadership. Jameson observed that Labour’s deputy leader, Lucy Powell, displayed visible concern when she learned of the results. “You can see written on her face what Labour MPs have been telling me darkly for a few weeks now, which is that this exact scenario—a Green win, Reform in second, and Labour in third—is their worst nightmare,” Jameson explained.
Further complicating matters, Starmer had barred popular Labour figure Andy Burnham from running in this election. The previous Greater Manchester mayoral race between Burnham and Spencer saw Burnham win by over 375,000 votes, making this loss all the more poignant for Labour supporters. Jameson pointed out that this election could indicate a need for a strategic reassessment within the party.
In the wake of the election results, Labour must now confront the reality that their recent focus on targeting Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, may have overlooked the Green Party’s growing influence. This shift could lead to significant changes in Labour’s approach as MPs reflect on their smaller majorities and the necessity for tactical evolution.
The Gorton and Denton election results highlight a pivotal moment in British politics, emphasizing the increasing competitiveness of the political landscape. As the Green Party celebrates its historic win, Labour faces critical questions about its future direction and electoral strategy.
