Reform Party has selected former academic and self‑described conspiracy theorist Matt Goodwin as its candidate for the Gorton and Denton by‑election. The decision follows a series of high‑profile Tory defections to Reform and a photo‑op blunder by incumbent MP Lee Anderson, who mistakenly posed outside a hotel in Labour’s Angela Rayner constituency. Goodwin, who has been described as a far‑right figure with extremist views and a history of anti‑immigrant rhetoric, was introduced by Anderson in a local bistro despite the constituency’s diverse demographics. Reform’s choice has drawn criticism from journalists and voters who say the party is fielding an unsuitable candidate. The by‑election is now a three‑way marginal seat, with Labour, Conservative and Reform competing for a seat that could swing the balance of power in the Commons. The party’s leadership hopes Goodwin’s profile will attract voters dissatisfied with the mainstream parties, but his controversial past raises questions about the party’s direction and credibility. The move underscores the growing fragmentation of the UK’s political landscape as Reform attempts to position itself as a viable alternative to the established parties.

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