During the recent hustings for the Gorton and Denton by-election in Manchester, a confrontational exchange took place between Labour's Angeliki Stogia and Reform UK's Matthew Goodwin. Stogia accused Goodwin of 'demonising immigrants,' which she argued has created a climate of fear among women in the constituency. This sharp criticism underscores the deep divisions in political rhetoric surrounding immigration issues, which have become increasingly contentious in the UK.

Stogia pointed out that the rise of security during campaigning, evident in Goodwin's presence of security personnel, reflects the serious concerns among constituents regarding safety. She asserted that many women in the area feel unsafe due to the aggressive and divisive language adopted by parties like Reform UK. This incident illustrates how political campaigning can intertwine with community safety and the emotional well-being of residents, especially in areas marked by socio-political strain.

The by-election on February 26 represents a crucial moment not only for Keir Starmer's leadership within the Labour Party but also for Reform UK's aspirations to gain ground in traditionally Labour-held constituencies. As tensions rise, the outcomes of such events could significantly impact party dynamics and voter sentiment leading into the elections, as both parties navigate a landscape marked by fear and divisiveness.