Did the Greens just deliver a knockout blow for Keir Starmer?

Did the Greens just deliver a knockout blow for Keir Starmer?

From Electoral Dysfunction by Sky News

February 27, 2026 · 41 min

About this episode

The episode discusses the implications of the Greens' victory in the Gorton and Denton by-election for Labour and the upcoming local elections.

Harriet thinks the Greens delivered a "bruising" defeat to Labour in the Gorton and Denton by-election, so is Keir Starmer now worried about the local elections in May? The Gorton and Denton by-election result on Friday was a shock for Labour, who Beth says were convinced they would hold on to this once safe seat for the party. And the Greens now have a new MP in Hannah Spencer. Is this a sign of things to come in the May elections? Are the Green Party a serious contender and concern for the government? What does it mean for Labour to come third behind the Greens and Reform? And have Reform got a ceiling to their support? Beth, Ruth and Harriet also discuss the arrest of former US ambassador Lord Mandelson this week. He denies all wrongdoing and his lawyers said he wants to "clear his name". Got a question for the burner phone? WhatsApp 07934 200 444 or email electoraldysfunction@sky.uk. And if you didn't know, you can also watch Beth, Ruth and Harriet on YouTube.

People in this episode

Guests: Harriet, Beth, Ruth

Topics covered

  • by-election results
  • Labour Party
  • Green Party
  • political commentary
  • local elections
  • political strategy

Keywords

  • Gorton and Denton
  • by-election
  • Labour
  • Green Party
  • Keir Starmer
  • politics
  • local elections
  • Lord Mandelson

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Labour, Green Party, Reform

Places: Gorton and Denton

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