Reform UK has suspended a key campaigner involved in the Gorton and Denton by-election effort following revelations of racist and sexist social media posts. The suspension of Adam Mitula comes just days before the crucial electoral contest, casting a shadow over the party's campaign in a seat they hope to wrest from Labour.
Controversial Social Media Remarks
Adam Mitula, described as a prominent figure supporting Reform UK candidate Matt Goodwin, reportedly made a series of inflammatory statements on his now-deleted X account. According to reports, Mitula claimed that the Holocaust death toll had been exaggerated and stated he would "never touch a Jewish woman."
Additionally, he allegedly asserted that 60 to 70 percent of transgender individuals are paedophiles. These posts have sparked widespread condemnation and prompted immediate action from the party leadership.
Mitula's Response and Investigation
Mr Mitula confirmed his suspension by Reform UK pending an internal investigation but defended his remarks as being "taken out of context." He insisted that his comments were actually intended to defend the Jewish community and has threatened legal action against those spreading what he calls false information.
"I'm confirming my suspension as a Reform member pending investigation," Mitula stated. "The comments in question were taken out of context, and actually defended the Jewish community. My solicitor is contacting anyone spreading false info that damages my reputation."
Reform UK has maintained its standard policy of not commenting on internal disciplinary processes, leaving the investigation's outcome uncertain as the by-election approaches.
Political Pressure Mounts
Labour deputy leader Lucy Powell has written directly to Matt Goodwin, demanding he distance himself from Mitula and his views. In her letter, she acknowledged that Goodwin may have been unaware of the remarks when initially accepting Mitula's campaign help but emphasized that awareness now requires action.
"You can ensure that they are not part of your campaign in the future, make clear that you disagree with their vile views, and state clearly that racism and conspiracy like this is not welcome in Reform and not compatible with campaigning for you," Powell wrote.
She warned that failure to disavow these views would lead people to conclude that Goodwin and Reform UK are "happy to be associated with them."
The By-Election Context
Matt Goodwin, a former academic who has received backing from far-right activist Tommy Robinson, is contesting the Gorton and Denton seat in what he has called a "referendum on Keir Starmer." His campaign has focused on border control and crime reduction pledges.
Goodwin has previously generated controversy with remarks about women's fertility, including calling for a "biological reality" check for women and girls and suggesting tax penalties for childless individuals. These comments, revealed by The Independent, have added to the contentious atmosphere surrounding his candidacy.
The suspension of a key campaigner so close to polling day represents a significant disruption to Reform UK's efforts in a seat they view as winnable. The party's handling of this situation may influence voter perceptions as they attempt to convert Labour's traditional stronghold.
