James O'Brien - The Whole Show The Greens have beaten Reform and Labour
Feb 27, 2026
Henry Riley, on-scene reporter from Manchester who covered the count, brings lively colour and anecdotes from by-election night. Hannah Spencer, newly elected Green MP with a working-class plumbing background, gives an acceptance speech focused on cost-of-living, public services and rejecting divisive politics. They discuss the Greens’ campaign style, grassroots momentum, local organising, and what the result means for Labour and national politics.
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Green Win Might Signal Realignment
- The Green victory in Gorton and Denton signals a potential tectonic shift, not just a protest swing.
- James O'Brien highlights a comprehensive Green win and media overreaction from the right framing it as existentially dangerous.
Plumber Candidate Apologised For Cancelling Jobs
- Hannah Spencer framed her candidacy through her plumbing and plastering work, apologising to clients she must cancel.
- Her authenticity as a working plumber/plasterer resonated as a contrast to career politicians during the acceptance speech.
Greens Focused On Cost Of Living Not Ecology
- The Greens emphasised bread-and-butter issues (cost of living, NHS, housing) while largely avoiding environmental tropes.
- O'Brien notes this repositioning broadens their appeal beyond traditional Green voters.