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Labour Faces Crucial Byelection Battle in Gorton, Denton

2/20/2026

35 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The byelection in Gorton and Denton is pivotal for Labour, which has dominated the area for decades.
If Labour loses, blame may fall on Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party, for blocking Andy Burnham, the popular mayor, from running.
The race is tight among Labour, Reform, and Greens, with concerns about splitting anti-Reform vote.
Pollsters warn Reform reaching 40% could win, as far-right groups plan a Manchester march.

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Story summary

The byelection in Gorton and Denton is pivotal for Labour, which has dominated the area for decades.
If Labour loses, blame may fall on Keir Starmer, leader of the Labour Party, for blocking Andy Burnham, the popular mayor, from running.
The race is tight among Labour, Reform, and Greens, with concerns about splitting anti-Reform vote.
Pollsters warn Reform reaching 40% could win, as far-right groups plan a Manchester march.