Reform UK Candidate Robert Kenyon: Makerfield By-Election a 'Win-Win' Regardless of Outcome
Robert Kenyon, the Reform UK candidate for the Makerfield by-election on 18 June, has described the contest as a "win-win situation." He articulated that a loss would still mean he, as a "working class lad," would have "given two fingers to the establishment" and delivered a "bloody nose" to the Labour Party.
The by-election was triggered by the resignation of Labour MP Josh Simons, a move reportedly intended to facilitate a parliamentary bid for Andy Burnham, potentially paving the way for a leadership challenge.
Kenyon, a former Army reservist, addressed past online remarks concerning television presenter Carol Vorderman. He had previously responded to a sexually graphic post about Vorderman with a thumbs up, a laughing emoji, and the comment: "He's only saying what we're all thinking." Kenyon conceded the comment was "disgusting" but characterised it as a "crass joke" and "squaddie banter" made to an ex-military acquaintance.
The self-employed plumber, one of fourteen candidates, expressed a lack of pressure regarding the spotlight, stating, "It's water off a duck's back." He explained his entry into politics in 2023 was driven by a perception that local issues "have been ignored for donkey's years."
Kenyon pledged to focus on local matters, such as campaigning for a new hospital in Wigan, halting green belt housing developments, and addressing strains on resources from houses of multiple occupation. When questioned on hospital funding, he cited money spent on asylum seeker accommodation, claiming over £2 billion annually, as evidence that funds "can be found when needed." He advocated for "sensible immigration," welcoming those who "offer us something."
He affirmed his connection to the constituency, stating, "I am one of them," sharing the same shops, schools, football teams, streets, and pubs as local residents.
