Green Party leader Zack Polanski has delivered a scathing assessment of the Labour Party, declaring it "over" after what he describes as taking voters' support "for granted over decades." His comments come just weeks before the crucial Gorton and Denton parliamentary by-election scheduled for the end of February, where both the Greens and Reform UK are mounting strong challenges to seize the seat from Labour.
By-Election Battle Intensifies
Speaking exclusively to the Press Association, Mr Polanski pointed to recent electoral shifts as evidence of Labour's declining appeal. He highlighted Reform UK's narrow victory in a recent Peterborough City Council by-election, where the Greens finished a close second, trailing by only 36 votes, while Labour's candidate placed a distant fourth.
"I think that demonstrates what people feel about this Labour Government right now," Polanski stated. "The Labour Party have taken people's votes for granted over decades, and they're over. They're done. It's very clear. I'm meeting people who used to vote Labour, who wouldn't dream of voting Labour again."
Confidence in Local Candidate
Polanski expressed firm confidence, though not complacency, in local plumber Hannah Spencer's campaign to become the Green Party's fifth Member of Parliament. She faces Reform UK candidate Matt Goodwin in the February 26th contest. Polanski criticised Goodwin, accusing him of steering "hate and division" in his political approach.
"It's very, very clear: the way to stop Reform is to vote for the Green Party," Polanski asserted, positioning his party as the primary progressive alternative to both Labour and what he views as right-wing populism.
Recognition as LGBTQ+ Trailblazer
The Green leader's comments coincide with his recognition by Attitude Magazine, which named him the 2026 Trailblazer of the Year in its annual Attitude 101 list. This prestigious list honours 100 LGBTQ+ individuals who have demonstrated exceptional achievement and leadership in their respective fields.
Warning on Trans Rights
In his interview, Polanski also issued a stark warning about the state of trans rights in the United Kingdom, describing them as the "canary in the coal mine" for broader societal threats.
"As a gay man, I knew what it was like to grow up under Section 28 and what we're seeing is the same playbook, but in many ways, much worse, against trans people," he explained. "Their basic human rights to identify in the way that they are, to be able to live their lives, to be able to go to the toilet in peace, all of these things are under threat."
He emphasised solidarity, stating, "I think it's really important that we recognise when they come for one of us, they come for all of us, and our communities must stay together."
Critique of Labour's Direction
Polanski further criticised the Labour Government's political strategy, accusing it of capitulating to right-wing narratives. "Far too often, we see Keir Starmer and this Labour Government echoing or parroting the lines that the right, or even the far-right, come with – that's never going to appease them," he argued.
"They're just going to get worse. And actually, it's really incumbent on the Government, or anyone in power, or indeed a political leader, to make sure that we put the stake in the ground, and the stake in the ground is to say we stand for human rights, and that has to mean human rights for all."
Labour and Reform Respond
A Labour Party spokesperson dismissed Polanski's remarks, drawing parallels with Nigel Farage. "Much like Nigel Farage, Zack Polanski offers anger but no answers. The Green Party's policies are not serious and are not credible," the spokesperson said.
They defended the Government's record, noting, "This Labour Government is taking the action to renew Britain and ease the cost of living. We're rolling out free breakfast clubs for kids, expanded Government-funded childcare, boosted the minimum wage, frozen rail fares and prescription charges, and interest rates are falling which is reducing mortgages."
Meanwhile, a Reform UK spokesperson responded to Polanski's personal criticism of their candidate. "It's disappointing to see opponents resort to personal attacks rather than engaging in a proper debate about policies that matter to local voters," they stated.
"Ultimately, it will be the people of Gorton and Denton who decide who represents them best, and we are confident that Matt Goodwin's record and positive vision for the local area speak for themselves."
The Gorton and Denton by-election, triggered by the resignation of the previous Labour MP, is shaping up to be a significant test for all major parties, with the Greens aiming to capitalise on perceived Labour weaknesses and counter the rise of Reform UK in the constituency.
