Nigel Farage secured a decisive victory in the Clacton by-election with 63.3% of the vote on a turnout of 44.4%, yet the media and political establishment have largely dismissed the result as a failure. The Reform UK leader called it a “convincing, overwhelming win”, noting he received more votes than in the 2024 general election.
Establishment backlash and double standards
Critics have attacked Farage for skipping the count, dismissed his claims of facing “credible threats” to his safety, and mocked his victory as “predictable”. Count Binface, a novelty candidate, was hailed by some as a political wit. The Parliamentary watchdog has also restarted its probe into a £5million crypto gift to Farage.
The contrast with Andy Burnham’s victory in the Makerfield by-election is stark. Burnham won with 54.8% of the vote, a result described by The Guardian as “striking”. The same publication argued that Farage’s 63.3% share was “no overwhelming victory”.
Cost comparisons and political motives
Critics note that the Clacton by-election cost £250,000, with Reform’s offer to cover the cost refused. In contrast, electing a new Mayor of Manchester cost nearly £5million, and the Makerfield by-election cost £226,000. The Makerfield seat was triggered by the sitting Labour MP resigning, reportedly with a £100,000-a-year role and a seat in the Lords, allowing Burnham to enter Parliament and become Prime Minister, voted in by just 26,000 people.
When Clacton was called, Burnham posted an image of himself with Count Binface, writing: “Always worth knowing when bin day is.”
Farage's resilience and future prospects
Farage warned rivals: “We are only just getting started.” Reform voters remain loyal, understanding that Farage faces credible threats and that the establishment would block him if he won power. Despite winning four million votes at the last election, the state does not provide him with protection, even after an incident involving Ann Widdecombe.
If the Parliamentary watchdog finds against Farage and forces another by-election, the expectation is that he would win again.
