Labour has launched a fierce attack on Reform UK's candidate for the upcoming Gorton and Denton byelection, accusing Matthew Goodwin of embodying "toxic politics" following a public endorsement from the notorious far-right figure Tommy Robinson.
Far-Right Backing Sparks Political Firestorm
The controversy erupted when Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, used his substantial social media platform to explicitly support Goodwin's candidacy. With 1.8 million followers on X, the former English Defence League leader quoted a tweet from anti-fascist organisation Hope Not Hate and added the simple but politically charged instruction: "Vote for Matt."
Labour's Strong Condemnation
A Labour campaign spokesperson responded with forceful criticism, stating: "Tommy Robinson's endorsement of Reform's candidate shows who he really is and what he stands for. The Greens simply cannot win this byelection, leaving a stark choice between unity and change with Labour, or division and risk with Reform."
The party emphasised that "only a vote for Labour can stop the toxic politics that Reform and Tommy Robinson would bring to Manchester," framing the February 26th contest as a crucial battle against divisive political forces.
Reform's Official Position
In response to the endorsement, a Reform spokesperson maintained distance from Robinson, stating: "We have consistently been clear on this issue. He isn't welcome in the party." This position aligns with Nigel Farage's historical approach of keeping his political movements separate from the controversial activist.
Controversial Candidate Background
Matthew Goodwin's selection as Reform's candidate had already generated significant controversy before Robinson's intervention. The former academic turned GB News presenter and hard-right activist recently made headlines by claiming that UK-born people from minority ethnic backgrounds are not necessarily British.
During his candidate unveiling event in Denton, Goodwin twice declined to answer when questioned by the Guardian about whether he stood by these views, which included his statement that "it takes more than a piece of paper to make somebody 'British.'"
Robinson's Troubled History
Tommy Robinson first gained notoriety as leader of the English Defence League, an anti-Islam street movement that originated among football fans in his hometown of Luton. His criminal record includes convictions for assault, mortgage fraud, and using a false passport.
His political influence became particularly evident in 2018 when he was appointed as an adviser to then-Ukip leader Gerard Batten, a move that prompted Nigel Farage to resign from the party he had previously led.
Social Media Resurgence and Political Impact
Since Elon Musk reinstated his X account, Robinson has experienced a significant resurgence in visibility, presenting himself as a journalist and campaigner while primarily sharing content targeting immigrants and Muslim communities. His growing influence was demonstrated last September when he organised a "unite the kingdom" protest that attracted between 110,000 and 150,000 participants.
Broader Political Context
The Greens have entered the fray with their own perspective, arguing that Labour's polling difficulties and the party's decision to prevent Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham from standing in the seat make them the most credible opposition to Reform in the constituency.
This development creates a complex political landscape for the byelection, with Labour attempting to position itself as the only viable progressive alternative to what they characterise as Reform's divisive politics, while the Greens challenge this narrative and present themselves as genuine contenders.
