Voters in the Gorton and Denton constituency will head to the polls on March 7, 2024, for a by-election that could significantly impact the trajectory of British politics. This area, known for its stark demographic contrasts, has been a traditional Labour stronghold, yet growing discontent among constituents may signal a shift in political allegiance.
Gorton, with its diverse suburbs, is home to a large student population and a significant Muslim community. In contrast, Denton is characterized by its working-class roots and an aging demographic, with nearly 91 percent of its residents identifying as white. Both areas, now facing various socio-economic challenges, rank as the 15th most deprived parliamentary seat in the country. The disillusionment felt by voters is palpable, as many express feelings of neglect from the Labour Party, which has historically dominated the region.
A critical factor in this by-election is the legacy of former Labour MP Andrew Gwynne, who secured a substantial 13,000-vote majority in the last general election, despite a broader shift towards the Conservative Party under Boris Johnson. The current atmosphere, however, is markedly different. Residents report disappointment with Sir Keir Starmer‘s leadership, citing decisions that have alienated loyal Labour voters, such as blocking popular Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham from standing as the Labour candidate.
Taxi driver Muhammed Basharat, 61, from Levenshulme, voiced his discontent, stating, “They let down many people – the tax rises, they cut benefits, there are many things they are doing.” Mobile hairdresser Caterina Pandolfo, 65, reflected a similar sentiment, asserting that the constituency feels “forgotten” and criticizing Starmer’s performance.
In Denton, lifelong Labour voters John and Sheila Harrison are disillusioned. Sheila described Britain as “broken” and expressed her willingness to vote for Burnham instead of Starmer. John emphasized a sense of betrayal, noting, “Labour isn’t really doing what they said they would in the manifesto.”
As Labour grapples with internal challenges, rival candidates are poised to capitalize on the electorate’s discontent. Matthew Goodwin, the Reform UK candidate, has gained traction, as polling indicates rising support in Denton. Meanwhile, Green Party nominee Hannah Spencer is also making a strong push in Gorton, evidenced by an array of campaign materials visible throughout the area. Spencer believes this by-election represents a transformative moment in British politics, suggesting that voters are increasingly seeking alternatives to the traditional two-party system.
“I think people are rejecting that old system of two-party politics and looking for an alternative,” Spencer told The Independent. She noted that the political landscape could shift rapidly, citing recent trends that indicate a growing appetite for change.
In response to the mounting criticism of Labour’s leadership, Labour candidate Angeliki Stogia has emphasized the importance of voting for her party, warning that a vote for any other candidate could hand the seat to Goodwin. Stogia defended Labour’s track record, acknowledging the need for greater responsiveness to community concerns, particularly regarding the cost of living crisis.
“We’re listening to residents on the ground and what they want is real action,” she said. “The real issues that people are bringing forward are cost of living, issues that surround the neighbourhoods and communities.”
The by-election on March 7 is not merely a local contest; it may reshape the political landscape in the UK. The potential for Reform UK to secure a seat in a traditional Labour heartland raises questions about the future of party politics in the region.
With the results likely to resonate beyond Gorton and Denton, the implications for Labour, the Green Party, and Reform UK could redefine political alliances and party dynamics across the nation. As this constituency navigates its diverse needs and aspirations, the outcome may serve as a bellwether for the broader electoral landscape in Britain.
