Reform UK has been plunged into an extraordinary embarrassment after their candidate for an upcoming Kent by-election told a television crew he would "prefer it if people didn't vote for me" in a stunning on-camera moment.
The remarkable incident occurred when ITV News approached the party's candidate for the Rochester and Strood constituency, capturing footage that has sent shockwaves through political circles.
'Profoundly Damaging' Warning from Tory Chief
The revelation comes as Conservative Party chairman Mel Stride issued a stark warning about Reform UK's potential impact on the upcoming general election. Stride described Nigel Farage's party as potentially "profoundly damaging" to Conservative prospects, suggesting they could split the right-wing vote and hand victories to Labour.
Speaking to Times Radio, Stride emphasised the high stakes: "If you look at the number of seats where the margin of victory or defeat is very small indeed, and if you then have a party like Reform that is standing and taking votes, then that could be profoundly damaging."
Candidate's Bizarre Admission
In what political analysts are calling one of the most unusual campaign moments in recent memory, the Reform UK candidate didn't just express reluctance - he actively discouraged voters from supporting him. The ITV News footage shows the candidate making the extraordinary statement that has since gone viral across social media platforms.
The incident raises serious questions about Reform UK's candidate vetting process and the quality of representatives they're fielding in crucial electoral contests.
Strategic Implications for Conservatives
Mel Stride's comments highlight the growing concern within Conservative headquarters about the threat posed by Reform UK. With Nigel Farage's party gaining traction in recent polls, there are genuine fears that they could play a spoiler role in numerous marginal constituencies.
Stride's intervention represents the most direct acknowledgment to date from a senior Conservative figure about the electoral mathematics working against them. The warning serves as both an admission of vulnerability and a strategic plea to potential Reform UK voters to consider the broader consequences of their ballot choices.
As the political drama unfolds, all eyes remain on Kent and whether this extraordinary candidate admission will significantly impact the by-election outcome and set the tone for the general election campaign to come.
