The British public's opinion of the Green Party has seen a notable decline since Zack Polanski became its leader, according to recent YouGov research. The party's net favorability score has fallen to minus 16, the lowest point recorded to date, with 52 percent of respondents holding a negative view.
This marks a substantial shift from the positive rating of plus five observed shortly before Mr. Polanski took charge in September of the previous year. The findings suggest that while the Green Party has achieved success in local and by-elections, its broader public appeal may have contracted as its public profile has grown.
The polling also sheds light on the challenges confronting other political parties. The Labour Party faces the highest unfavorability rating at 63 percent, with only 28 percent expressing a positive view. Reform, meanwhile, records a particularly high percentage of 'very' negative opinions, standing at 53 percent.
In a development that could concern Nigel Farage, 58 percent of those who voted for Reform in the 2024 general election also hold a favorable view of Restore Britain. Farage has been contending with the challenge posed by Rupert Lowe's new party on his political right. Both parties secured significant support in the recent Makerfield by-election, though the seat was ultimately won by Andy Burnham.
The Green Party is reportedly aiming for a strong performance in the upcoming Greater Manchester Mayoral contest, a position being vacated by Mr. Burnham. However, Reform is also allocating considerable resources to this particular election.
