Reform UK has designated Matt Goodwin as its contender for the upcoming Gorton and Denton by-election. Goodwin, known for his right-wing activism and commentary on GB News, has been at the center of controversy due to his involvement in a racism-related dispute in the past.
In previous months, Reform faced backlash for appointing Goodwin as the honorary president of Students4Reform, a move that drew criticism for allegedly fostering racist sentiments. Goodwin’s stance that individuals from minority ethnic backgrounds born in the UK may not be considered British sparked accusations of racism against Nigel Farage’s party.
According to Hope Not Hate’s 2025 report, Matt Goodwin, a former academic turned activist, has emerged as a significant supporter of Reform, leveraging his influential Substack platform with over 70,000 followers. The report delves into Goodwin’s transformation from a politics scholar to an activist, emphasizing his strategic understanding of the factors driving far-right party success and mobilization.
When questioned about the absence of Andy Burnham in the by-election race, Goodwin expressed his belief that Labour is more focused on internal disputes rather than genuinely serving the interests of the Gorton constituency residents. He emphasized the importance of addressing governmental shortcomings regardless of individuals’ religious beliefs or ethnic backgrounds.
In response to queries directed at Muslim voters in the region, Goodwin highlighted the significance of hard work, tax contributions, and economic participation, stressing the need for a government that truly represents the populace. Notably, Goodwin has previously condemned Islamophobia as a trend among the elite class, as per reports from Hope Not Hate.
Describing himself as a non-career politician and distancing himself from mainstream establishments, Goodwin affirmed his candidacy for Reform in the by-election. His positioning reflects a departure from traditional political affiliations and an appeal to voters seeking alternatives to established political norms.
The by-election in Gorton and Denton, set for February 26, follows the resignation of independent MP Andrew Gwynne due to health reasons. Gwynne’s departure has paved the way for a competitive electoral contest, particularly with Labour facing challenges from Reform and the Greens amid shifting poll dynamics.