A candidate for Reform UK, Robert Kenyon, faces severe criticism over offensive posts targeting broadcaster Carol Vorderman. Kenyon, who is contesting the Makerfield by-election against Labour's Andy Burnham, allegedly used a now-deleted social media account to endorse remarks deemed "inappropriate" and "misogynistic" by some within his own party and by the broadcaster herself.
The core of the controversy centers on Kenyon's alleged endorsement of sexually explicit comments directed at Vorderman. This has drawn condemnation from a Reform UK MP, who has labelled the posts "inappropriate." Vorderman has publicly reacted, describing Kenyon as a "disgusting online abuser" and questioning the party's broader stance on women's rights.
Reform UK has issued statements indicating support for Kenyon, despite the controversy. A party spokesman stated, "We fully back Cllr Kenyon." This position has been met with skepticism, with critics suggesting it indicates a pattern of behavior from the party and calling for leadership, such as Nigel Farage, to explain the candidate's selection.
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The exact nature of the offensive posts and the reasons behind the suspension of Kenyon's X account remain points of contention. Some reports suggest sexually explicit remarks, while questions have been raised about the low threshold for account suspension on the platform. Vorderman herself has reportedly shown screenshots of particularly explicit comments.
The incident has prompted a sharp reaction from the Labour Party, with a spokesman calling Kenyon's comments "disgusting" and questioning his fitness to represent Makerfield. The controversy unfolds as the Makerfield by-election campaign is underway, with the contest scheduled for June 18.
