A North East Reform UK councillor has resigned after making apparent homophobic and sexist comments on a podcast. Alex Clarke, elected to represent the South Tyneside ward of Harton on May 7, stepped down two months later, a council spokesperson confirmed.
Resignation and Investigation
His resignation follows an investigation by Hope not Hate, which uncovered sexist remarks on his podcast Clarke Out Loud. The podcast, co-hosted with his partner Abbie, describes itself as delving into everyday and controversial subjects. Six episodes were released after his election. In one, Clarke stated that “washing clothes is a woman’s job” and “it’s scientifically proven that men are better drivers than women.”
Clarke denied being homophobic or sexist, telling Chronicle Live that the podcast is “a comedy-based show, and the tone is intentionally exaggerated, self-deprecating, and rooted in humour.”
Council Statement
A South Tyneside Council spokesperson confirmed Clarke resigned on June 18, 2026, with immediate effect. A vacancy in the Harton ward will be declared in due course. The council expects all members to maintain high standards of conduct, with complaints assessed under the Members’ Code of Conduct.
Homophobic Remarks
In a June 3 episode titled “Is University a Scam?” Clarke made homophobic comments about Green Party leader Zack Polanski, calling him a “gay little t***.” He also branded university students “entitled w******” and criticised their intelligence. His partner Abbie echoed similar sentiments.
Clarke’s Defense
In a statement, Clarke said his council role was misrepresented regarding time commitment, and stepping down was responsible. He rejected malicious intent, explaining that the comments were comedic and taken out of context. The washing machine joke was self-deprecating, and the driver comment was a running gag with his partner. He denied believing one gender is inherently better.
Regarding Polanski, Clarke claimed the country needs strong leadership, and the comments were an inside joke. Chronicle Live has contacted Reform UK for comment.
