Thursday, February 12, 2026 — Manchester Candidates contesting the upcoming Gorton and Denton by-election faced voters directly on Thursday evening, as a packed community hall in Manchester hosted the final hustings before polling day.
The by-election, triggered by the resignation of the sitting MP late last year, has drawn national attention despite being rooted in local concerns. Issues ranging from housing shortages and NHS waiting times to public transport reliability dominated the discussion.
Residents pressed candidates on the rising cost of living, particularly energy bills and rent increases affecting working families. “We want practical solutions, not party slogans,” said Amina Qureshi, a local shop owner who attended the event. “Our community needs investment and accountability.”
Labour’s candidate emphasized plans to expand affordable housing and improve bus connectivity across Greater Manchester. The Conservative contender focused on economic development and small-business support, arguing that tax stability and targeted incentives would encourage job growth.
The Liberal Democrat hopeful called for electoral reform and stronger environmental protections, linking flood resilience to recent extreme weather events across the region.
Political analysts suggest turnout could be decisive. By-elections often produce unpredictable outcomes, and campaigners have intensified door-to-door canvassing efforts in the final days.
Greater Manchester has traditionally leaned Labour, but recent elections have shown shifting voter patterns influenced by national policy debates. Immigration, economic performance and healthcare funding have all featured prominently in campaign literature.
Election officials confirmed polling stations will open at 7 a.m. next Thursday, with counting scheduled overnight.
For many residents, the contest reflects broader political currents. “It’s local, but it’s also national,” said community volunteer Peter Lawson. “People are thinking about the direction of the country as much as the future of our constituency.”
