gg2
Zack Polanski campaigns in Holborn and St Pancras
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Green Party leader Zack Polanski announced Thursday he will stand in the Holborn and St Pancras by-election. The contest will test Labour's hold on a safe seat after Starmer's resignation.
Background
Keir Starmer resigned as MP for Holborn and St Pancras after being ousted as prime minister. Polanski, leader of the Green Party in England and Wales, has long expressed interest in a London seat. He is now seeking selection as the Green candidate in the resulting by-election.
How it unfolded
- Sep 1, 2026Keir Starmer announces his resignation as MP for Holborn and St Pancras.
- Sep 2, 2026Local Green Party members back Polanski; he is seen as favourite. Polanski confirms he will put his name forward for selection.
- Sep 3, 2026Polanski publicly announces his candidacy, telling the Camden New Journal he wants to represent the constituency.
- recentlySelection process by Camden Green Party is expected to conclude by end of next week.
Who’s saying what
- Green source
- There would be a lot of excitement about him standing; his profile would play well with local members.
- Jewish Green source
- Jewish Green members will campaign for whoever is selected, but will join the campaign if Polanski stands.
- Analysts
- Polanski's challenge will be to construct a progressive coalition and consolidate the left-of-Labour vote.
Still unverified
Polanski's selection is not yet confirmed; he must win the local party vote. Some reports suggest he is 'likely' to stand, but official confirmation came later.