Brighton’s Queen’s Park ward has long been a Labour stronghold. For years, local residents have consistently backed Labour candidates, trusting them to tackle everything from housing to community services. But don’t let that fool you — recent elections show the political waters here are stirring.
Back in May 2024, Milla Gauge won a by-election in Queen’s Park, keeping Labour firmly in the driver’s seat. Yet, turnout was just about 30%, a reminder that many locals stay on the sidelines during these smaller elections. That low turnout isn’t just a number — it hints at a deeper feeling of disconnect or maybe a dash of election fatigue. And that’s where things get interesting.
Enter the Liberal Democrats. Their fresh candidate, Rüdi Dikty-Daudiyan, isn’t your typical politician. A freelance translator and local tennis enthusiast, Rüdi has his finger on the pulse of what many residents are feeling: “The council has a massive majority but hasn’t delivered on the basics,” he says — think bins piling up, cracked pavements, and antisocial behaviour getting worse. His message? It’s time for change and better accountability.
Then there’s the Green Party, quietly gaining ground and appealing to voters hungry for stronger environmental action. Though they’ve never won here, their growing vote share suggests Brighton’s eco-conscious spirit is alive and well in Queen’s Park.
What does all this mean? Well, even in a Labour-dominated ward, by-elections are wildcards. Lower turnout can flip seats and send shockwaves through local politics. This upcoming vote is more than a routine election — it’s a chance for residents to speak up and decide if the current council is really delivering.
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