Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister and leader of the Labour Party, has launched a passionate appeal to voters ahead of a pivotal by-election in Gorton and Denton, urging them to unite against what he describes as divisive politics represented by the Reform party. Starmer emphasized that only Labour has the power to fend off Nigel Farage's party in this contest, highlighting the historical significance of Labour's almost century-long hold on this Greater Manchester seat. The by-election, set against a backdrop of emerging pressure from the Greens and the Liberal Democrats, presents a precarious situation for Labour, which previously secured the seat with a substantial majority of over 13,000 votes in 2024.

Furthermore, during his campaign efforts, Starmer articulated the stakes of the election, framing it as part of a broader struggle for 'the soul of the nation.' This rhetoric comes as he targets Reform's hard-line candidate, Matt Goodwin, who has faced scrutiny for controversial statements regarding national identity and ethnicity. Goodwin's remarks, which have been interpreted as exclusionary towards citizens from minority backgrounds, have raised alarms among voters valuing inclusivity and social cohesion. As the election day approaches, Starmer’s messages resonate with a significant segment of the electorate that seeks to counter the rising tide of populist attitudes in politics, responding to what they consider a threat to the nation's unity and values.