Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform UK party, has won the Clacton by-election, returning as the constituency's Member of Parliament. Farage secured 63% of the vote in a contest triggered by his own resignation following scrutiny of his financial backing. The election saw a record 34 candidates, including novelty opponent Count Binface, who came in second place with 27% of the vote. The by-election was notably boycotted by all major Westminster parties.
Farage did not attend the results declaration, citing a warning from Essex Police about an "organised campaign to disrupt and degrade the result." However, the BBC has been informed by Essex Police that no candidate was advised against attending the count, with a spokesperson stating there was a "proportionate and robust policing operation to ensure the safety and security of all participants."
In a rally prior to the results, Farage declared it a "convincing, overwhelming win" and stated that the voters had "stuck two fingers up at the entire political establishment." He received 22,239 votes, increasing his majority from the 2024 general election. The turnout for the by-election was approximately 14% lower than the 2024 general election for the constituency.
Following the election, Reform UK canceled a planned major speech by Farage in Clacton and some scheduled media appearances. This victory reopens an investigation into a reported £5 million gift received by Farage.