Count Binface could become Nigel Farage's sole opponent in the upcoming Clacton-on-Sea by-election, as reported by the Daily Star. The intergalactic space warrior has pledged to challenge the Reform UK leader, and with major parties refusing to field candidates, Binface would be Farage's main rival. However, the hard-working Recyclon is not the first unusual character to appear on a ballot.
The Origins of Novelty Candidates
Elections have not always featured oddballs in fancy dress. It began in 1963 with shock rocker David Sutch, better known as “Screaming Lord Sutch.” He first stood in Stratford-upon-Avon during a by-election triggered by the resignation of Foreign Secretary John Profumo, who had quit after a scandalous affair with 19-year-old Christine Keeler. Sutch, then 23, represented his own National Teenage Party, arguing that the voting age should be lowered from 21 to 18 because adults were making foolish decisions.
From Loony to Bin
In 1982, Sutch founded the Monster Raving Loony Party. He stood for election 38 times as its leader, with policies ranging from “all socks to be sold in packs of three” to “subsidised heated loo seats.” Many of his ideas, once considered ridiculous, have since become reality, including 24-hour licensing laws, pet passports, and legalisation of commercial radio. Sutch tragically died by suicide in 1999 at age 58. The party is now led by Alan Hope, known as “Howling Laud Hope.”
Other Memorable Oddballs
Sutch opened the floodgates for a wave of election misfits. Captain Beany, a baked bean-obsessed superhero, frequently appears at polls in South Wales. Former boxer Terry Marsh stood as an independent candidate in the 2010 and 2015 general elections after legally changing his name to None Of The Above X. YouTuber Niko Omilana ran for London mayor in 2021 and 2024. Special mention goes to Tom Scott, who won the presidency of the University of York Student Union in 2008 while dressed as a pirate.
Novelty Candidates in the US
While mainly a British tradition, the US has seen its share of unusual candidates. The Nobody for President campaign ran throughout the 1970s and 1980s without physical candidates. Satirist Deez Nuts ran for president in 2016, backed by rappers Warren G and Ice-T. Performance artist Vermin Supreme has campaigned six times, always wearing a Wellington boot on his head. And, of course, a star of the reality show The Apprentice once hilariously tried to become US leader.
