Angeliki Stogia, the Labour candidate for Gorton and Denton, has raised concerns regarding the Reform UK party, led by Nigel Farage, claiming they lack a substantial plan for the constituency. Ahead of the upcoming by-election, Stogia has accused her opponent, Matthew Goodwin from Reform UK, of fostering division and failing to connect with the community's needs. She stressed the importance of local engagement and suggested that Goodwin would benefit from understanding the voters by directly interacting with them on their doorsteps.

Stogia's candidacy follows a tumultuous period within the Labour Party, where internal disagreements led to the exclusion of Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham from standing in the election. This backdrop adds to the urgency of her campaign as she seeks to unify the party’s base and appeal to a wide range of voters, including those dissatisfied with the Greens. Stogia is positioning herself as the candidate capable of bridging gaps and addressing the concerns of a diverse demographic within the constituency.

By focusing on voter engagement and denouncing the divisive tactics of her competitors, Stogia aims to create a strong narrative that resonates with the community. Her comments reflect a broader strategy to reclaim trust in political representation and address local issues, emphasizing that a genuine understanding of the electorate’s concerns is crucial for effective governance. This election not only represents a key moment for Stogia personally but also for Labour as they navigate significant intra-party challenges and competition from emerging parties like the Greens and Reform UK.