In a significant shift, Labour’s deputy leader Lucy Powell has appeared to concede defeat in the Gorton and Denton by-election while counting is still underway on February 27, 2026.

 

Powell appears to concede Labour defeat

In a significant shift, Labour’s deputy leader Lucy Powell has appeared to concede defeat in the Gorton and Denton by-election while counting is still underway on February 27, 2026.

 

Key details of her statement and the situation include:

Admission of Defeat: Speaking to Sky News, Powell stated that the Green Party had "won the argument" that they were the best-placed party to block Reform UK in the constituency.

Support for Candidate: She expressed her desire for the Labour candidate, Angeliki Stogia, to have been her colleague in Parliament but acknowledged the clear majority in the constituency voted against Reform.

Strategic Defense: Powell framed the potential loss as a typical midterm by-election result for a party of government, arguing that a general election would present a different "focus" for voters between a Reform or Labour government.

Political Context: This expected loss in a long-time Labour stronghold comes amid broader pressure on Sir Keir Starmer's premiership, following a series of recent scandals and declining popularity.

Humility and Take Stock: Powell emphasized the need for the party to "take stock" and "show humility" in response to what the voters are saying.

The official results for the by-election are expected later on Friday morning.