Why Polanski’s by-election defeat may not be a disaster for the Greens

Is this the end of Zack Polanski as leader of the Green Party? Many seem to think so - indeed, multiple national newspapers have suggested it. No doubt there are people in his party who want him out now he’s failed to be elected to parliament for Holborn and St Pancras. But on closer examination, Polanski’s defeat on Friday morning is far less of a catastrophe than many of his critics are claiming. The Green vote share surged to a historic high in the seat, and with a volatile electorate there are clear signs that the party can be optimistic about its potential for future growth.