Zack Polanski Takes Helm of Green Party, Aiming to Match Reform UK’s Success
Following Reform UK's significant win of nearly 700 councillors in the May local elections, Zack Polanski announced his bid for the Green Party leadership and subsequently defeated MPs Adrian Ramsay and Ellie Chowns to become the party leader.
Polanski advocates for eco-populism and aims to elevate the Green Party's presence in national politics to match Reform UK's air campaign. Under his leadership, the Greens have seen substantial growth, with membership in England and Wales increasing from about 70,000 to over 180,000. Poll ratings have also risen, with some surveys placing the Greens above the Liberal Democrats or Labour.
Funding for the party has grown through member donations and crowdfunding initiatives, including a Christmas video that raised £260,000. Polanski maintains a strong media footprint, hosting a podcast with around 1 million monthly listens and engaging on social media daily.
Plans for the year include increasing paid staff by nearly 80 percent, with new roles such as a senior communications aide. Upcoming elections are pivotal, including May local elections in England, the Senedd elections in Wales with the potential for up to three seats, the Holyrood elections in Scotland, and forecasted gains in London. While a general election is anticipated in 3 to 4 years, the party is focusing on practical policies shaped with input from external experts.
Polanski finds campaigning rewarding and acknowledges facing personal attacks but remains positive about his role and the Green Party’s future.
