Why Zack Polanski’s approval rating has slumped since the Golders Green attack

LocalPolitics
5 May 2026 • 8:08 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Why Zack Polanski’s approval rating has slumped since the Golders Green attack

  • Green Party leader Zack Polanski's approval ratings have significantly dropped following a public dispute with the Metropolitan Police chief, Sir Mark Rowley.
  • Sir Mark criticised Mr Polanski for sharing an 'inaccurate' social media post alleging police brutality during an arrest in Golders Green.
  • Mr Polanski faced condemnation from within his own party and from Sir Keir Starmer, who called his actions 'disgraceful'.
  • Despite apologising for the post, Mr Polanski later stated that the police commissioner's open letter was 'not an appropriate way to do politics'.
  • The controversy comes days before crucial local elections, where the Green Party is still anticipated to make substantial gains, particularly in London.

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