Farage defeats Count Binface to retain Clacton seat in by‑election
Nigel Farage reclaimed the Clacton constituency in a by‑election that featured a record field of independent and novelty candidates after the major parties chose not to stand. Comedy‑politician Count Binface finished second, securing a sizable share of the vote. Turnout was reported as lower than at the previous general election. Farage did not attend the official count, and the acting returning officer said officials were cooperating with Essex Police. The result leaves Farage back in Parliament while the probe that prompted his resignation remains ongoing.
How this was covered
- Right-leaning outlets covered this 2h later
Why it matters
The win determines who will represent Clacton in the House of Commons following a highly publicised contest.
How this story developed
- Aug 10 Comedian Count Binface joins the chaotic Clacton by-election after Farage's resignation
- Aug 12 Reform UK is grappling with financial controversy while Nigel Farage prepares for the Clacton-on-Sea by-election, where he is expected to win a large share of the vote.
- Aug 13 The ballot now includes a record 34 candidates, the longest in British political history.
- Aug 14 Counting of votes began on Thursday.
- Aug 14 Counting began with turnout reported at 44 percent.
- Aug 14 Farage reclaimed the Clacton seat in a by‑election he called.
- Aug 14 In the Clacton by-election, comedy persona Count Binface secured almost 9,500 votes, the strongest showing for a satirical candidate in Britain.
- Aug 14 The parliamentary standards commissioner said the inquiry into Farage’s £5 million crypto donation is expected to resume.
- Aug 14 Results confirmed Farage's victory and Binface as runner‑up.
Related stories
7 in this thread