‘It’s about ego’: Matt Goodwin’s journey from far-right expert to firebrand Reform candidate | Reform UK
Dr. Matt Goodwin, a former academic specializing in the far-right, has become the Reform party candidate in the upcoming byelection for Gorton and Denton, a constituency in east Manchester. This marks a significant turn for Goodwin, whose earlier work focused on identifying the factors driving support for extremist groups like the British National Party (BNP).
From Academic to Candidate
In 2011, Tameside council commissioned Goodwin to investigate the rise of far-right extremism in the area, specifically focusing on white neighborhoods near areas with high immigration. His report suggested that fears in these communities were being exploited by extremist groups seeking to “defend” their neighborhoods and maintain their demographic composition.
A Shifting Political Landscape
Goodwin’s recent rhetoric, however, has drawn criticism from political opponents who now label him an extremist. A recent post on his Substack platform echoed Donald Trump’s claims of “civilisational erasure” in European cities, stating that cities like Paris, Brussels, and London are becoming unrecognizable. He has also stated that white Britons could become a minority by 2063, suggesting this shift could lead to decreased trust in society.
Early Career and Connections
Colleagues describe Goodwin as ambitious and attention-seeking, recalling an incident where he revealed his poker hand during a casino night. His PhD research on the BNP involved extensive interviews with activists, including Eddy Butler, a senior BNP figure who questioned whether Goodwin had developed empathy for nationalist aims – even suggesting a “Stockholm syndrome effect.”
Goodwin also cultivated relationships with prominent Conservative figures, assisting James Bethell and Tim Montgomerie with a campaign against the BNP. He later secured interviews with Nigel Farage, revealing a 2008 vote within UKIP regarding a potential pact with the BNP.
Controversies and Departures
Goodwin’s career has been marked by disagreements and strained relationships. He left a government working group on anti-Muslim hatred in 2015, citing a lack of progress, and reportedly clashed with former colleagues over his political forecasts. Tim Montgomerie, who has since retracted his comments, previously described Goodwin’s views as “sulphurous” and accused him of self-obsession.
Goodwin voluntarily left his position as a professor at the University of Kent in the summer of 2024 and is now a presenter for GB News, alongside maintaining a Substack with 90,000 subscribers. He recently published a book, Bad Education, criticizing “woke” ideas in British universities.
Recent Developments
The far-right agitator Tommy Robinson publicly endorsed Goodwin’s candidacy on Friday afternoon, tweeting “Vote Matt.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Goodwin’s initial research focus?
Goodwin initially focused on researching the rise of the British National Party (BNP) and the factors contributing to support for far-right extremism in areas like Tameside.
What concerns have been raised about Goodwin’s current political positions?
Goodwin’s recent statements about “civilisational erasure” and demographic changes have led to accusations of extremism from his political opponents.
Who are some of the political figures Goodwin has worked with?
Goodwin has worked with James Bethell, Tim Montgomerie, Nigel Farage, Ameet Gill, and Sayeeda Warsi, among others.
As Goodwin campaigns in Gorton and Denton, it remains to be seen how voters will respond to his evolving political stance and whether his past research will influence their perceptions of his current candidacy.