Green Party Selects Hannah Spencer for Gorton and Denton By-Election

The Green Party has nominated Hannah Spencer, a Trafford councillor and plumber, as its candidate for the forthcoming Gorton and Denton by-election. Spencer, who previously contested the 2024 Greater Manchester mayoral election, was selected by local party members during an online hustings on January 29. Her candidacy was officially announced the following day in Longsight.

Spencer's selection follows the resignation of former MP Andrew Gwynne due to health reasons. In the 2024 general election, Gwynne secured the seat with 50.8% of the vote.

The by-election is scheduled for February 26, 2026. Reform UK has announced Matt Goodwin, a political commentator and former academic, as its candidate. Labour is expected to announce its candidate soon, following internal discussions regarding potential nominees.

Spencer emphasized the significance of the upcoming election, stating, "This is a crucial by-election. The choice is clear – Green v Reform. Hope v hate. Only the Green Party can stop Reform in this by-election."

Green Party leader Zack Polanski expressed confidence in Spencer's candidacy, remarking, "Hannah Spencer will be a brilliant MP for the people of Gorton and Denton. I'm a Mancunian and know when someone genuinely wants to roll up their sleeves and work for the community. Hannah is that person."

The Green Party has also received an endorsement from the pressure group The Muslim Vote, which supports their stance on various issues.

The Gorton and Denton by-election is anticipated to be a closely contested race, with the Green Party positioning itself as a strong contender against Reform UK and awaiting Labour's candidate announcement.