Matt Goodwin is running: the search for Reform’s elusive byelection candidate
The Guardian World
by Jonathan LiewFebruary 22, 2026
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Matt Goodwin, a prominent figure in the Reform Party and former academic, is running for the Gorton and Denton byelection—a race that has become a focal point for cultural and political debates in the UK. Known for his right-wing views and flair for stirring public discourse, Goodwin has brought his signature high-profile presence to a constituency grappling with more mundane concerns like bin collections. His campaign has been marked by an attempt to bridge the gap between his ideological stances and the everyday issues faced by local voters.
Goodwin’s visibility in the constituency, however, has been anything but straightforward. Despite his large platform and media presence, he
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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/22/2026