Summary
Reform UK has announced that academic and commentator Matt Goodwin will be their candidate for a by-election in Greater Manchester's Gorton and Denton area. The by-election was triggered by Andrew Gwynne's resignation and is marked by internal debates within the Labour Party about candidate selection. Goodwin sees the election as a chance for voters to express their views on Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer.
Key Facts
- Matt Goodwin, an academic and commentator, is Reform UK's candidate for the Gorton and Denton by-election.
- The by-election was called after Andrew Gwynne resigned for health reasons.
- Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham wanted to run for the seat but was blocked by the Labour Party's ruling body.
- Labour's leader, Sir Keir Starmer, emphasized focusing resources on necessary elections.
- About 50 Labour MPs signed a letter asking their party to reconsider disallowing Burnham's candidacy.
- In the 2024 general election, Labour won the seat with a 13,000 majority, while Reform UK came second with 5,000 votes.
- Matt Goodwin considers the by-election as a chance for voters to voice their opinions on Keir Starmer's leadership.
- Goodwin has a personal connection to Manchester and has worked there in the past.
