Labour has come under fire after sharing a video online that critics say misrepresented comments made by Reform UK by-election candidate Matt Goodwin about Manchester.
The clip was posted on Labour’s official X account shortly after Goodwin was confirmed as Reform UK’s candidate in the Gorton and Denton by-election.
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In the video, Goodwin is heard saying: “I was lucky enough, or unfortunate enough, to be in Manchester a few days ago, and the energy in this room is ten times what it was in Manchester, so congratulations.”
Labour accompanied the footage with the caption: “This is what Reform’s latest candidate thinks about where he’s standing to represent.” The post was widely circulated, including being shared by senior Labour figures such as deputy leader Lucy Powell.
Video Context Dispute Sparks Backlash Online
It later emerged that the clip did not relate to the constituency itself. Goodwin was, in fact, referring to his experience at last year’s Conservative Party conference, which took place in Manchester.
Responding on X, Goodwin said: “I was referring to the dying Tory Party conference that was held in Manchester – as you know.
“This is exactly what the British people are sick and tired of. Labour gaslighting and misleading them at every turn.”
In his own words… pic.twitter.com/WltOjFfF12
— The Labour Party (@UKLabour) January 27, 2026
Gorton and Denton By-Election Puts Labour Under Pressure
The by-election was triggered following the resignation of sitting Labour MP Andrew Gwynne, who stepped down on health grounds.
Gwynne secured the seat for Labour at the 2024 general election with a majority of around 13,400 votes. However, recent polling suggests the contest has tightened significantly, with Labour now virtually neck-and-neck with Reform UK and the Greens.
Trot on …
You aren’t welcome in Manchester next time either https://t.co/0tC8NjsxBQ
— Lucy Powell MP (@LucyMPowell) January 27, 2026
Starmer Faces Growing Stakes in Key Contest
A potential loss would mark another serious setback for Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, particularly after he blocked Manchester mayor Andy Burnham from standing as the party’s candidate.
Burnham’s supporters have argued he was the only figure capable of comfortably holding the seat, while Labour has yet to announce who will represent the party in the by-election.
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