Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has won the by-election in Clacton, southern England, but his attempt to secure a fresh mandate came with a setback as comedian Count Binface won more than a quarter of the vote.
Farage secured 62.8% of the vote, while Count Binface, the political character created by comedian Jonathan Harvey, received 26.7%. Turnout stood at 44%.
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Farage did not attend the vote count after police reportedly warned him about a potential campaign to disrupt the result. He also cancelled a victory speech scheduled for later in the day.
Speaking to supporters before the result was announced, Farage said he would not appear on stage if he faced attempts to “demean and humiliate” him.
The election followed Farage’s resignation from parliament last month. He sought a renewed mandate from voters while presenting the contest as a challenge to what he described as an establishment campaign against him.
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Count Binface Surprises With Strong Result
Farage was widely expected to win after the major political parties withdrew from the contest and criticised his decision to trigger the by-election.
Count Binface then emerged as Farage’s main challenger. His campaign included deliberately humorous proposals, such as limiting the price of ice cream cones and taking action against people who use loudspeakers on public transport.
Political lecturer Laura Richards-Gray said the absence of established party challengers had weakened Farage’s attempt to frame the election as a battle between voters and the establishment.
She said the result had allowed Farage to lose control of the political narrative.
Reform UK Faces Growing Political Pressure
The result comes as Reform UK’s support in national opinion polls has declined after previously enjoying a strong lead.
The party is also facing competition for right-wing voters from the Conservative Party and the anti-immigration party Restore Britain.
At the same time, the governing Labour Party has gained support since Andy Burnham became prime minister last month. Recent polling has placed Labour ahead of Reform by 28% to 25%.
Parliamentary Investigation Resumes
Farage also continues to face scrutiny over his financial declarations.
A parliamentary standards investigation into whether he properly declared a £5 million ($6.75 million) gift from a Thailand-based billionaire cryptocurrency investor has resumed following the by-election.
Farage has acknowledged receiving the money but maintains that he did not breach parliamentary rules.
If authorities conclude that he violated declaration requirements, Farage could face suspension from parliament and potentially another vote to retain his seat.
