Green Party leader Zack Polanski expressed his elation upon learning that Andy Burnham was prevented from competing in the Gorton and Denton by-election. The Greens achieved a significant victory, surpassing Labour and Reform UK in the Greater Manchester constituency. Green candidate Hannah Spencer overturned a 13,413-vote majority previously held by Labour in the 2024 general election, with Nigel Farage’s party also outperforming Labour in the election. The backlash against Keir Starmer ensued following the decision to block Andy Burnham from standing, citing the expenses associated with the race to replace him as Greater Manchester Mayor.
Andy Burnham actively supported the campaign, engaging in door-knocking activities to support Labour’s Angeliki Stogia. However, some within Labour criticized the decision to bar him as a candidate, noting that his popularity in Manchester could have aided in retaining the seat. Labour MP Karl Turner labeled the outcome as “catastrophic,” denouncing the NEC’s ruling to prevent Mr. Burnham from running. The Mainstream Labour group, endorsed by Burnham, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that he could have been the key candidate for victory.
When questioned about the decision to block Mr. Burnham, Keir Starmer defended the selection of an “excellent candidate.” Green Party leader Zack Polanski, speaking at a press conference in Manchester, shared his initial excitement upon Burnham’s exclusion, believing it increased the Green Party’s chances of winning. He also criticized the Labour Party for not meeting voters’ expectations for change and addressing critical issues such as the cost of living crisis and global events.
Newly elected Green MP Hannah Spencer expressed confidence in the Greens’ ability to secure victory even if Burnham had been a candidate. She emphasized that many voters were disillusioned with Labour, suggesting that Burnham’s association with the party would not have bolstered his campaign. Spencer dismissed the notion that Burnham’s candidacy would have significantly impacted Labour’s performance in the election.
