The Clacton by-election is approaching, and while most expect Nigel Farage to win, a surprising number of voters are considering turning to an intergalactic alien instead. If Count Binface wins, it would be a historic first—no novelty candidate has ever won a Parliamentary election. The consequences could be seismic for Farage and the Reform party.
Polling and Odds Suggest a Real Chance
Recent constituency polling by Survation found that one in five Clacton residents would prefer Count Binface over Farage. Bookmakers William Hill are offering 11/1 odds on Binface becoming the new MP, indicating that while Farage remains the favorite, the novelty candidate's support is not negligible. With all major parties having pulled out of the race, Binface is effectively Farage's top opponent.
This isn't just a joke for many voters; it's a protest against the political establishment. If enough people in Clacton-on-Sea decide they want to see Farage's reaction to a dented vote share, the outcome could be shocking.
What Happens If Binface Wins?
If Binface wins, the immediate issue is his attire. According to the i Paper, he would not be allowed to wear his signature bin costume in the House of Commons, as clothing must 'demonstrate respect for the House'. Instead, comedian Jon Harvey would sit as a plain MP, potentially between Rupert Lowe and Jeremy Corbyn. He would then need to address his pledges, such as capping 99 Flake ice creams at 99p and representing the UK at Eurovision.
The closest historical parallel is Stuart Drummond, who was elected Mayor of Hartlepool as H'Angus the Monkey and served successfully for three terms. That precedent suggests Binface could take the role seriously, despite the absurdity.
Impact on Farage and Reform
For Farage, a loss would be devastating—marking his eighth defeat in nine elections. It would likely force him to step down as Reform leader, with potential successors including Richard Tice, Robert Jenrick, or Zia Yusuf. This would also boost Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who could capitalize on Reform's disarray.
Farage would also be free from ongoing Parliamentary Standards Commission investigations into a £5 million 'gift' from crypto billionaire Christopher Harborne and support from convicted fraudster George Cottrell. However, the humiliation of losing to a man with a bin on his head would be a heavy price.
Election Details and Candidates
Polling for the Clacton by-election begins on Thursday, August 13, with results expected the following day. The race includes Farage, Binface, Laurence Fox of Reclaim, independents, Rejoin EU Party members, and the Social Democratic Party. Also running are Monster Raving Loony Party candidates Nick the Incredible Flying Brick, Howling Laud Hope, and Baron Von Thunderclap.
If Binface wins, he may face a familiar foe in 2029—a candidate with a helmet shaped like a giant pint of bitter, whose croaky voice seems oddly familiar. That could set up a rematch that would captivate the nation.
