In Gorton and Denton, a key by-election is underway that marks a crucial moment for Labour as they battle against Reform UK and the Green Party. Labour’s Angeliki Stogia is the party's candidate, contesting against Reform's Matt Goodwin, who has received notable backing from controversial figure Tommy Robinson. This election is particularly important as Labour aims to maintain its historical dominance in a seat it has held for nearly a century. The party reports record numbers of voter engagement on polling day, reflecting their determination to secure another victory in this Greater Manchester constituency.

The backdrop to this election includes not only the parties’ campaign strategies but also personal political attacks, exemplified by Ed Miliband’s recent comments directed at Matt Goodwin. Miliband publicly condemned Goodwin's comments regarding British identity, framing them as an unwarranted assault on his family's heritage. This aspect highlights the personal stakes involved in the election, with candidates drawing from personal experiences to galvanize support and influence public opinion.

As the results are anticipated soon, they will carry significant implications not only for the future of the Greater Manchester seat but also for the political landscape in the UK. A win for Labour would reinforce their position and momentum heading into future elections, while a strong showing for Reform could indicate shifting voter sentiments and potentially destabilize Labour’s long-standing influence in the region. The election thus serves as a barometer for the current political climate in the UK, shaped by issues of national identity, party loyalty, and evolving electoral preferences.