Makerfield residents are expressing their dismay over alleged comments made by Reform UK’s by-election candidate, while the outcome of the crucial vote remains uncertain.
Recent revelations of offensive posts attributed to 41-year-old Robert Kenyon before his entry into politics have put Reform UK on the defensive. Senior MP Danny Kruger labeled the comments as “inappropriate.”
Kenyon is reported to have made derogatory remarks on a rugby league forum, suggesting that women who have abortions engage in promiscuous behavior. He also expressed sexist views, denying women the ability to referee, drive, or provide directions.
Moreover, Kenyon allegedly shared degrading and explicit posts about Carol Vorderman on a now-deleted Twitter account, prompting Vorderman to denounce him as a “misogynist” and an “online abuser.”
A spokesperson for Reform UK defended Kenyon, stating that the comments were made years before his political career, portraying him as an “ordinary man” rather than a polished politician.
Residents of Ashton-in-Makerfield, the constituency’s largest town, voiced their disapproval of Kenyon’s alleged remarks, expressing concerns about how it could influence voting decisions. Megan Stott criticized Kenyon’s views on abortion, labeling them as “disgusting” and calling Reform UK a “dangerous party.”
Desmond Williamson condemned Kenyon’s outdated beliefs on women’s abilities, emphasizing the need for progressive thinking in modern society. He speculated that the controversy could sway the by-election outcome in favor of Andy Burnham.
Despite the backlash, a voter named John defended Kenyon, citing their shared past and describing him as a respectable individual. Other constituents shared positive opinions on Burnham’s leadership qualities and accomplishments in the area.
The by-election landscape has been further complicated by the emergence of Restore Britain, a new party led by former Reform MP Rupert Lowe. Polls indicating support for Restore Britain at 7% have raised concerns within Reform UK about losing votes to the right.
Some Reform voters seem to be shifting allegiance to Restore, with visible support for the new party in Ashton-in-Makerfield. Concerns about Farage’s party being perceived as part of the establishment were raised by a supporter named Tony.
Additionally, Labour voter Jim Painter criticized Farage and questioned the timing of government criticisms, highlighting the historical political landscape.
The evolving dynamics in Makerfield underscore the uncertainty surrounding the by-election and the shifting loyalties among constituents.
