Tensions flared at a recent election hustings in Greater Manchester during the Gorton and Denton by-election, as Labour’s Angeliki Stogia accused Reform candidate Matt Goodwin of employing rhetoric that is frightening women in the constituency.
Clash Over Rhetoric and Security
Stogia confronted Goodwin, who arrived at the Manchester Evening News offices – the event’s location – accompanied by security personnel. She stated that interfaith women in the community had expressed fear of leaving their homes due to Goodwin’s statements. Goodwin responded by asserting he has received “incredibly real threats” to his life.
Goodwin further suggested that fears among women stem from Labour’s “policy of open borders, which is putting women and girls at risk.” He likewise criticized Labour’s past handling of cases involving the “mass rape and sexual abuse of working-class kids.”
Other Candidates Face Scrutiny
The Green Party candidate, Hannah Spencer, has also required security accompaniment following an incident involving an “very, very angry” man who verbally abused her. At the hustings, Spencer characterized Goodwin as “an academic, bussed in from the south, spreading that party’s message of division.” Goodwin, in turn, criticized Spencer’s party’s stance on drug policy, claiming the Greens advocate for the legalization of “all drugs, including crack cocaine, and heroin.”
A lighthearted moment occurred when candidates were asked to name their favorite Oasis song, given the band’s origins in Burnage, part of the constituency. While Jackie Pearcey (Liberal Democrat) and Charlotte Cadden (Conservative) mistakenly named the band’s debut album, “Definitely Maybe,” Angeliki Stogia and Matt Goodwin both cited “Supersonic” as a favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Gorton and Denton by-election take place?
The by-election is scheduled for Thursday, 26 February 2026.
Who are the candidates running in the by-election?
The candidates include Angeliki Stogia (Labour), Charlotte Cadden (Conservative), Matt Goodwin (Reform), Jackie Pearcey (Liberal Democrats), Hannah Spencer (Green), Sir Oink A-Lot (Monster Raving Loony), Nick Buckley (Advance UK), Dan Clarke (Libertarian), Sebastian Moore (SDP), Joseph O’Meachair (Rejoin EU), and Hugo Wils (Communist League).
What prompted this by-election?
The by-election was triggered by the resignation of Andrew Gwynne, who was sitting as an independent following his suspension from the Labour Party in February 2025, citing ill health.
Given the pointed exchanges and security concerns, what impact will this level of intensity have on voter turnout in the Gorton and Denton by-election?
