Matt Goodwin to contest Gorton and Denton by-election for Reform UK
Political commentator Matt Goodwin has been announced as the Reform candidate for the upcoming Gorton and Denton by-election, following the resignation of Andrew Gwynne due to health concerns, reports BritPanorama.
Goodwin, who also presents on GB News and is an academic, aims to challenge Labour in what has been described as a “referendum on Sir Keir Starmer”. His campaign launch emphasized pressing issues such as border control, investment in the National Health Service, and a crackdown on crime and anti-social behaviour.
“Only Reform can be trusted to fix broken Britain. We will put the people of Gorton and Denton where they belong: first,” said Goodwin during the presser.
Nigel Farage, a prominent figure within the party, supported Goodwin’s candidacy, asserting that the by-election represents a critical decision against Starmer’s administration. He characterized a vote for Labour as endorsing “more of the same uncontrolled mass immigration, broken borders, and record high taxes.”
The by-election, set for February 26, was triggered to facilitate a potential candidacy for Andy Burnham, although Labour leadership has reportedly obstructed that move. As Labour prepares to announce its candidate over the weekend, there are growing concerns among party allies about the possibility of losing the constituency.
Recent polling indicates that Reform has gained traction in the area, with bookmakers presenting a competitive landscape, suggesting a two-horse race with the Greens also in contention. Labour may face challenges retaining support from Muslim voters due to the Greens’ pro-Gaza stance.
The outcome of this by-election is pivotal not just for Reform, but for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak as well, who is facing dissent from left-leaning elements within his party. Depending on the results, there may be significant repercussions leading into the local elections scheduled for May 7. According to the latest YouGov national poll, Reform leads with 25%, while Labour stands at 21%, and the Conservatives lag behind at 17%.
The unfolding political dynamics could herald a shift in public sentiment and provide fertile ground for deeper challenges within party structures as the nation approaches critical electoral milestones.
This by-election encapsulates broader themes in British politics, highlighting issues of governance, representation, and the shifting landscape of political loyalties. The results could serve as a barometer for the state of the current government and its future direction.
