Residents of Makerfield have expressed their outrage over comments reportedly made by Reform UK’s by-election candidate. The victor of this crucial election remains uncertain amid the controversy.
Alleged offensive remarks attributed to 41-year-old Robert Kenyon before his political career have surfaced recently, prompting the party to defend itself. Senior MP Danny Kruger labeled the comments as “inappropriate.”
On a former rugby league forum, Kenyon purportedly made derogatory comments about women who have abortions, implying they engage in promiscuous behavior. Additional posts on the forum included sexist remarks about women’s capabilities.
Moreover, Kenyon is said to have shared explicit and demeaning content about Carol Vorderman on a now-deleted Twitter account, leading to accusations of misogyny and online abuse.
A spokesperson for Reform UK stated that the comments were made years before Kenyon entered politics, portraying him as an ordinary man rather than a polished politician.
In Ashton-in-Makerfield, residents shared their opinions on Kenyon’s remarks and how they might influence voting decisions. Many expressed disgust and concern over his comments, with one resident deeming Reform UK a dangerous party for the area.
Some residents criticized Kenyon’s views on women’s roles, highlighting the outdated nature of his perspectives. Speculation arose about the impact of the controversy on the by-election outcome, with opinions divided among voters.
While some defended Kenyon, others voiced support for Andy Burnham and his potential bid for Prime Minister. Concerns were raised about Burnham’s intentions in using the constituency as a springboard for personal ambitions.
A recent poll indicated growing support for Restore Britain, a new party challenging Farage’s Reform UK. Signs of voter shift were noticeable in Ashton-in-Makerfield, with Restore gaining traction among some disillusioned Reform supporters.
Elderly voters shared contrasting views on Farage and the current government, reflecting on past political experiences and their hopes for a better future under new leadership.